Don’t use your phone while driving. It’s a warning we’ve all heard — and one many still ignore. I’ve done it myself, and I’m not proud of it.
But after hearing 17-year-old Katelyn Ray’s story, I’ve made a promise: never again will I drive with my phone within reach.
On the morning of September 5, 2018, Katelyn was driving to pick up her sister. She never made it. She crashed into a stopped school bus at high speed — without ever hitting the brakes.
There were over a dozen children on board. Thankfully, none were hurt. Katelyn, however, was killed instantly. Her phone was still in her hand.
Police believe she was looking at it instead of the road. One responder took a photo to share a stark warning: “PAY ATTENTION!! No brake marks. Phone still in hand.”
Katelyn’s mom had spoken to her just before the crash — it was their last conversation. When Katelyn didn’t arrive, her sister posted on Facebook asking if anyone had seen her. Soon after, the family got the heartbreaking news.
Please — don’t let a text or notification cost a life.