Kaylynn Marie South Bend Indiana Obituary:- On the night of December 15, 2024, 15-year-old Kaylynn Marie, a student at Mishawaka High School, became an unwilling victim of domestic gun violence.
What began as a seemingly innocent phone call turned into a nightmare that nearly claimed her life. Kaylynn, who had been close friends with the family of her shooter, received a call from her assailant’s mother inviting her to their home under the pretext of a Christmas gift. Trusting the invitation, she agreed to meet.
Around 10 p.m., Kaylynn was picked up by her shooter’s mother and taken to their house. It was there, just an hour later, that tragedy struck. Kaylynn’s shooter, identified as the ex-boyfriend of the mother, attacked her with a firearm.
The teen was shot at close range, with the bullet entering her right jawbone and exiting through her left cheek, leaving severe damage. The impact of the bullet caused the complete destruction of her left jaw and tongue, as well as the loss of multiple back teeth.
In a moment of sheer willpower and strength, Kaylynn, despite her life-threatening injuries, managed to locate her phone and dial 911 herself, summoning help. She was left for dead, but her quick thinking likely saved her life. Authorities arrived at the scene shortly after receiving her call, and Kaylynn was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
As the investigation unfolded, it was revealed that Kaylynn’s assailant, Carter Dixon, and his accomplice, Ashley Culp, were arrested in connection with the crime. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, but what is clear is the sheer resilience Kaylynn exhibited in the face of unimaginable violence. Despite the harrowing circumstances, she is expected to survive, but her recovery will be long and difficult.
This tragic incident underscores the devastating impact of domestic violence and gun violence, especially on young lives. Kaylynn’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit, even when faced with life-threatening situations.