Kadance Fredericksen, a pageant contestant who competed for the Miss Florida Teen USA crown and held the title of Miss Okaloosa County Teen, has tragically passed away at the age of 18.
The teenager had a promising future ahead. According to CBS affiliate WKRG, she had been accepted into nine colleges and aspired to become a veterinarian. Just days before her passing, Fredericksen interviewed for the prestigious Presidential Scholarship at Mississippi State University — a full-ride scholarship — and was awarded it.
Just days before her tragic passing, Fredericksen had interviewed for — and been awarded — the prestigious Presidential Scholarship at Mississippi State University, a full-ride opportunity she had worked hard to earn.
Following the heartbreaking news, many have flocked to her Instagram page to leave heartfelt tributes in her memory.
One follower wrote, “Rest in peace, sweet girl. My heart is broken.”
Another shared, “Forever in my heart. I will never forget you!”
“Heartbreaking that we’ve lost such a beautiful, amazing soul who touched so many lives, especially children,” another penned. “Rest easy, beautiful girl.”
Someone else commented, “My heart and prayers go out to the whole family. Rest in peace, gorgeous.”
Another tribute read, “The most humble and sweetest angel.”
Fredericksen went on to volunteer extensively with the Ronald McDonald House, dedicating thousands of hours and organizing an annual lemonade stand, through which she reportedly raised over $25,000.
She later founded her own charity, Kada’s Promise, which, according to its website, provides teddy bears and blankets to children in foster care, homeless shelters, abuse shelters, and hospitals.
People magazine obtained a Florida Highway Patrol news release confirming that an 18-year-old — whose name was not disclosed — died in a crash at State Road 4 and Hurricane Lake Road.
Authorities reported that Fredericksen’s vehicle crossed the center line into the eastbound lane for “unknown reasons,” where it collided with a tractor-trailer.
The other driver, a 56-year-old man from Milton, reportedly sustained only minor injuries.
