olivia knighton boating accident

Olivia Knighton Boating Accident, Early Life, Education, Parents, Boyfriend And More

Olivia Knighton Boat Accident

On that fateful day, July 19, 2023, Olivia and her family were savoring their vacation in the beautiful Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Picture this: a 23-foot boat, a joyous group of 12 people, cruising along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway near Little River. Little did they know that a passing boat would turn their holiday into a tragic tale.

The boat’s wake hit them like a sudden storm, causing their vessel to rock violently. In the chaos, nine souls, including Olivia, were thrown into the water. It’s the kind of nightmare you never expect to happen during a summer getaway.

What unfolded next is heart-wrenching. Olivia, sweet and full of life, suffered severe injuries after colliding with their boat’s propeller. Despite the frantic rush to McLeod Seacoast Hospital, hope slipped away, and Olivia was pronounced dead. The shock of such a vibrant presence being gone in an instant is simply incomprehensible.

Amid the sorrow, Olivia’s father found solace in sharing his feelings on Instagram. He painted a poignant picture of his daughter—a “bright and pure light” who lived and breathed soccer and had an unyielding love for the Revolution. His gratitude for the flood of support and prayers echoed in his words.

The New England Revolution, a community Olivia held dear, felt the profound loss deeply. They penned a touching tribute, remembering Olivia as more than a fan—a “bright and shining light” that left an irreplaceable void. Plans were made to honor her with a moment of silence at the next home game—a fitting gesture for someone who had been a part of the Revolution family her entire life.

The sorrow radiated beyond Olivia’s immediate circle. Robert Coelho Middle School, recognizing the impact, extended grief counseling to students, families, and staff. In their words, Olivia was more than a student; she was a “wonderful young lady” whose absence would be profoundly felt by everyone who knew her.

In the midst of this tragedy, we’re reminded of life’s fragility and the importance of holding our loved ones a little closer. Olivia’s memory lingers, not just as a victim of circumstance, but as a vibrant soul who touched the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her.

Who is Olivia Knighton?

Olivia Knighton – just 11 years old, the daughter of Brad Knighton, a name etched in the hearts of New England Revolution soccer fans as their former goalkeeper. Now, picture a day near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, on July 19, 2023, turning into a heart-shattering tale for the Knighton family.

The calm waters, usually a source of joy, suddenly transformed into a scene of chaos when a forceful wake from another boat disrupted their family boating adventure. In the blink of an eye, Olivia and eight others were thrown overboard, a sudden twist that no one could have anticipated.

The weight of tragedy deepened as Olivia, a bundle of life and dreams, faced a devastating collision with the boat’s propeller. Despite the desperate rush to McLeod Seacoast Hospital, the resilient spirit of this young soul slipped away, leaving a void that can never be filled.

Left to navigate the storm of grief are Olivia’s parents, Britney and Brad Knighton, along with her two brothers, Owen and Brooks. Their world, once filled with the laughter and innocence of Olivia, is now forever altered.

As we reflect on Olivia’s journey, we can’t help but be reminded of the fragile nature of life and the indescribable pain that comes with unexpected goodbyes. The Knighton family, alongside everyone touched by Olivia’s presence, now grapple with the profound absence of a bright light that touched so many hearts.

Early Life

Picture a crisp November day in 2011, right in the heart of Massachusetts – that’s when Olivia Knighton made her grand entrance into the world. She wasn’t just any baby; she was the firstborn of Brad and Britney Knighton, a couple whose love story began in college and culminated in a beautiful wedding back in 2009.

Brad, a former pro soccer player, poured his heart into the game for 12 seasons with the New England Revolution. But after hanging up his boots in 2022, he found a new passion coaching for the same team. Meanwhile, Britney wore the hats of both a stay-at-home mom and the creative mind behind a flourishing photography business.

Now, in the Knighton household, Olivia wasn’t just the big sister; she was the sunbeam, the heartstring that tied the family together. Her younger brothers, Owen and Brooks, shared not just blood but an unbreakable bond forged in countless shared moments of laughter and mischief.

Olivia’s world was a palette of vibrant interests – soccer, music, art, and a soft spot for all creatures great and small. As a fifth-grader at Robert Coelho Middle School in Attleboro, she wasn’t just a student; she was the friendly face everyone knew and adored. Her passion extended to the soccer field, where she showcased her skills with the Attleboro Youth Soccer Association, all the while cheering passionately for her beloved Revolution.

Beyond the routine of school and sports, Olivia’s life was a beautiful canvas painted with the strokes of a lively spirit. Her laughter echoed in the hallways of Robert Coelho Middle School, her soccer cleats left their mark on the field, and her creative spirit added splashes of color to her every endeavor.

Olivia Knighton wasn’t just a name on paper; she embodied the warmth of family, the joy of childhood, and the simple pleasures that make life truly special. Her story, though tinged with sadness, is a celebration of a life that touched hearts and left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Wiki

FieldInformation
Real NameOlivia Knighton
Death CauseBoat Accident
Age11 years old (at the time of death)
Birth DateNovember 3, 2011
Death DateJuly 19, 2023
Birth PlaceMassachusetts
GenderFemale
NationalityAmerican
FatherBrad Knighton
MotherBritney Knighton
SiblingsOwen and Brooks
HeightIn feet: 4′ 11″
In centimeters: 149 cm
In meters: 1.49 m
WeightKg: 32
Pounds: 70 lbs
EyesBrown
HairBlonde
SchoolAttleboro’s Coelho Middle School
Instagramoliviaknighton

Education

Olivia Knighton is a vibrant fifth student at Attleboro, Massachusetts’s Coelho Middle School. Let’s chat about her. Olivia was not your typical student; rather, she had this amazing fusion of intelligence, curiosity, and kindness in her heart.

Olivia believed that education went beyond just reading books; it included embracing the vast and enthralling realm of information with an open mind. Her enthusiasm for learning new things infused her school days with energy, turning every class into a fascinating adventure.

Olivia was a jewel when it came to school life outside of the classroom, however. Imagine her as the amiable person who brightened the corridors and made friends with the greatest ease. She was the lifeblood of the institution, not merely a participant in its events.

Olivia was more than simply a student at Coelho Middle School; she was the link between all of the students in the vibrant environment. Her students loved her for the real, contagious warmth she provided to the school community, and teachers appreciated her for her intelligence. Olivia was more than simply a presence; she played a crucial role in helping so many people at the school feel like they were at home.

Parents

Olivia Knighton, a name that resonates with warmth and family ties, belonged to the loving daughter of Brad and Britney Knighton. Now, let me paint a more human portrait of this family for you.

Brad Knighton, not just a former MLS player, but a seasoned warrior on the soccer field, graced teams like the New England Revolution, Vancouver Whitecaps, and the Philadelphia Union. In the ever-evolving game of life, he transitioned from player to mentor, currently steering the ship as the head coach of the Revolution’s U19 academy team. Beyond the trophies and cheers, Brad’s journey tells a tale of dedication and the love for the beautiful game.

And then there’s Britney Knighton, the heart of their home. Devoted to both her role as a mother and a partner, she stood by Brad’s side, offering unwavering support throughout his career. Her days were woven with the threads of raising three children, nurturing not just their bodies but also their dreams and aspirations. In the symphony of family life, Britney played a key note, creating a harmonious blend of love and resilience.

Together, Brad and Britney formed the backbone of a family that went beyond victories on the field. Their story is one of teamwork, where each played a unique part in the narrative of love, growth, and shared dreams. Olivia, as their daughter, was a piece of this beautiful tapestry, a testament to the strength and bonds that define a family.

Boyfriend

At the time of her passing, Olivia Knighton wasn’t navigating the complexities of teenage romance. Too young to venture into the world of dating, her focus was firmly set on the simpler joys of life – studies and hobbies. In a world often buzzing with romantic tales, Olivia was writing her story with the vibrant hues of learning and pursuing what brought her genuine joy. The tender age she was in allowed her to cherish friendships, delve into her passions, and embrace the innocence of childhood, untouched by the complexities of young love. Olivia’s world was one of books, laughter, and the pure delight found in the things she loved, painting a picture of a young soul content in the richness of her present moments.

Summary: 

Olivia Knighton, an 11-year-old girl from Massachusetts, tragically lost her life in a boating accident near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, on July 19, 2023. The Knighton family, including Olivia’s father Brad Knighton, a former goalkeeper for the New England Revolution, was enjoying a vacation when their boat was hit by a wake, causing Olivia and eight others to be thrown into the water. Olivia suffered severe injuries after colliding with the boat’s propeller and despite efforts to save her, she passed away at McLeod Seacoast Hospital. Olivia was a vibrant fifth-grade student at Attleboro’s Coelho Middle School, known for her love of soccer, music, art, and her warm presence. The New England Revolution and Olivia’s school paid tribute to her, highlighting the profound impact she had on those around her.

Facts:

  1. Olivia Knighton was born on November 3, 2011, in Massachusetts.
  2. She was 11 years old at the time of her death on July 19, 2023.
  3. Olivia was the daughter of Brad and Britney Knighton and had two younger brothers, Owen and Brooks.
  4. Brad Knighton, Olivia’s father, is a former professional soccer player who played 12 seasons with the New England Revolution and later became the head coach of the Revolution’s U19 academy team.
  5. Olivia was a student at Attleboro’s Coelho Middle School, where she was known for her intelligence, curiosity, and kindness.
  6. The boating accident occurred near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, as the family was cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway.
  7. Olivia suffered severe injuries after colliding with the boat’s propeller during the accident.
  8. Efforts to save Olivia were made, but she was pronounced dead at McLeod Seacoast Hospital.
  9. The New England Revolution, the soccer team closely associated with the Knighton family, paid a touching tribute to Olivia, describing her as a “bright and shining light.”
  10. Olivia’s school, Robert Coelho Middle School, offered grief counseling to students, families, and staff in the wake of her tragic death.

FAQ:

What caused Olivia Knighton’s death?

Olivia Knighton’s death was caused by injuries sustained in a boating accident near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where she collided with the boat’s propeller after being thrown into the water.

Who are Olivia Knighton’s parents?

Olivia’s parents are Brad and Britney Knighton. Brad Knighton is a former professional soccer player and the head coach of the New England Revolution’s U19 academy team.

How old was Olivia at the time of her death?

Olivia Knighton was 11 years old at the time of her tragic death on July 19, 2023.

What school did Olivia attend?

Olivia was a fifth-grade student at Attleboro’s Coelho Middle School.

How did the New England Revolution honor Olivia?

The New England Revolution honored Olivia with a touching tribute, acknowledging her as more than a fan and describing her as a “bright and shining light.” A moment of silence was planned for the next home game in her memory.

Did Olivia have siblings?

Yes, Olivia had two younger brothers named Owen and Brooks.

What were Olivia’s interests and passions?

 Olivia had a diverse range of interests, including soccer, music, art, and a love for all creatures. She was actively involved in soccer with the Attleboro Youth Soccer Association.

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