A tragic accident that began as a normal September evening has left Cal State Fullerton grieving the loss of one of its brightest athletes. Nineteen-year-old Lauren Turner, a sophomore defender for the Titans women’s soccer team, died on November 7 — nearly six weeks after she and teammate Ashlyn Gwynn were struck by a box truck while riding electric scooters near campus.Turner and Gwynn suffered catastrophic injuries in the September 27 crash. Turner never regained consciousness. Her family announced her passing, writing that their “hearts are broken” but that they take comfort in believing she is now “in the loving embrace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”
Lauren was known as a joyful, uplifting presence whose humor and positivity strengthened her team. Her family described her as “full of life” and gifted at bringing comfort to others. Coaches and teammates echoed those words, calling her “the funniest, most charismatic, and loving teammate.” She played in all 20 matches her freshman year and quickly became a core defensive starter.
The crash occurred as Turner and Gwynn were riding scooters to a men’s soccer match. Police said both were unhelmeted and that no drugs or alcohol were involved. The collision left both scooters destroyed in the roadway. Turner suffered fatal head trauma, while Gwynn remained in critical condition for weeks before beginning a slow recovery.
Gwynn now faces up to two years of rehabilitation, including speech, physical, and occupational therapy. Her family calls her progress “a miracle,” but acknowledges the long journey ahead.
In response to the accident, Titans head coach Demian Brown instituted a helmet requirement for all scooter-riding players — a measure many other programs are now adopting.
Support has poured in from the community. Turner’s GoFundMe exceeded $105,000, while Gwynn’s nears $66,000. Yet no amount of aid can replace Turner’s warmth, leadership, and light.
Her No. 5 jersey will remain a symbol of the spirit she brought to the program — a legacy of joy, kindness, and resilience that will endure long after her passing.
