TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Ken’Nylah McGirt, 12, is learning to walk again after a severe crash left her critically injured. The incident occurred when a driver ran a red light, resulting in significant trauma for the young girl.
“It has been a nightmare,” said her mother, Darriel Walker.
Ken’Nylah sustained a traumatic brain injury from the crash, requiring a feeding tube due to her brain’s inability to signal hunger or thirst.
The crash took place on April 15 along 31st Street South in St. Petersburg. Ken’Nylah was on her way to her father’s house when a 19-year-old driver, fleeing from police, ran a red light and collided with the van she was riding in.
Now, Ken’Nylah faces the challenge of relearning basic skills.
“She says, ‘It’s like I’m a baby all over again,’” Walker shared.
Authorities have charged the 19-year-old with hit-and-run. The woman driving the van is also facing charges for failing to ensure Ken’Nylah was wearing a seat belt. Neither driver had insurance, leaving Walker to manage her daughter’s recovery.
“I am just mad and hurt because her life changed, and no parent wants to see their child go through this,” Walker said.
A GoFundMe has been set up to assist with medical expenses.
