PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA — A devastating accident has claimed the lives of two beloved family members, 16-year-old Jade North and her grandmother, 77-year-old Deidre North, leaving their community in mourning and their family heartbroken beyond words.
The fatal crash occurred Saturday afternoon at approximately 4:40 p.m. at the intersection of Randolph Siding Road and Alexander Run, a rural stretch of road in Palm Beach County. According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Deidre North was driving a sport utility vehicle (SUV) westbound when she failed to stop at a posted stop sign.
As the SUV entered the intersection, it crossed directly into the path of a southbound Ford pickup truck. The truck struck the driver’s side of the SUV with significant force, causing the vehicle to spin out, strike a nearby tree, and come to rest in a grassy area near the northwest corner of the intersection.
Emergency crews arrived quickly, but the damage was catastrophic. Deidre North was pronounced dead at the scene. Her granddaughter Jade, who was in the passenger seat, suffered critical injuries. Paramedics rushed her to a nearby hospital, but despite life-saving efforts, she passed away shortly after arrival.
The driver of the pickup truck, a 28-year-old man whose name has not been released, attempted to swerve and avoid the collision but was unable to. He stayed at the scene and cooperated with authorities. He was not seriously injured.
A Devastated Family Speaks Out
In the wake of the tragedy, the North family is navigating unimaginable grief. Juanita North, daughter of Deidre and mother of Jade, shared her heartbreak in a statement to local media:
“Rest in peace, my darling angel. I miss you so much. Far too young. I love you to the moon and back. You will be forever in my heart. You and Meme both.”
Juanita described Jade as a kind, artistic, and bright young woman with a gift for drawing and a presence that could light up any space she entered. Her love for art was well-known among friends and classmates.
“She had such a beautiful spirit,” Juanita said, her voice breaking. “It’s hard to accept that they’re both gone. Meme was always looking out for her. They were always together, and their bond was unshakable.”
Deidre North, lovingly called “Meme” by family and close friends, was known for her nurturing nature and her unwavering dedication to her family. She and Jade were inseparable—more than just grandmother and granddaughter, they were best friends and constant companions.
Community in Mourning
The loss has deeply impacted not just the North family, but the wider community. At the crash site, mourners have begun building a memorial of flowers, candles, and artwork—a tribute to Jade’s creativity and the love shared between the two.
Online, hundreds have offered condolences, shared memories, and expressed support. Classmates, friends, and even strangers have come together to support the grieving family.
A GoFundMe fundraiser is being organized to help cover funeral expenses and provide financial support for the Norths during this heartbreaking time. Plans for a joint memorial service are underway and will be announced in the coming days.
A Tragic Reminder
This incident also serves as a solemn reminder about the importance of traffic safety—especially at rural intersections where stop signs can sometimes be missed. Authorities are continuing to investigate the crash. At this time, no charges have been filed.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office has urged drivers to remain vigilant and follow posted traffic signs, stressing that even a momentary lapse can result in irreversible consequences.
Forever Remembered
Deidre and Jade North leave behind a legacy of love, laughter, and warmth. Their bond was rare, their spirits unforgettable, and the hole they leave behind is impossible to fill. As the North family grieves this devastating loss, they are comforted by the outpouring of love from friends, neighbors, and their broader community.
They were taken far too soon—but will never be forgotten.
May their memory live on in every act of love and every brushstroke of art.
Memorial and donation details will be made public by the family once finalized. The community is encouraged to continue offering support as the North family faces the difficult road ahead.
#RestInPeace #JadeNorth #DeidreNorth #PalmBeachCounty #GoneTooSoon #CommunityMourning
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