Miss Florida Teen USA contestant Kadance Fredericksen tragically lost her life in a car crash just three minutes away from her home, according to her mother, Lisa Fredericksen. The devastating incident occurred in Santa Rosa County on February 17, when Kadance’s car veered over the center line and collided head-on with a tractor-trailer, resulting in her untimely death at the age of 18.
In a heart-wrenching interview with People magazine, Lisa expressed her shock and disbelief at the proximity of the accident to their home, stating, “She was literally three minutes from home… I have no idea what happened.” The Florida Highway Patrol’s report cited that Kadance’s vehicle crossed into the opposite lane for reasons unknown, launching an ongoing investigation into the tragic event.
Lisa had lovingly adopted Kadance seven years earlier, offering her a second chance at life after enduring abuse in her early childhood. Despite her challenging past, Kadance thrived in the world of beauty pageants, becoming a finalist for the Miss Florida Teen USA title and winning the Miss Okaloosa County Teen USA crown in 2024. Lisa fondly recalled Kadance’s initial interest in pageantry, where she embraced the opportunity to speak in front of people and express herself despite her initial reservations.
Beyond her pageant success, Kadance dedicated herself to philanthropic endeavors, raising over $25,000 for the Ronald McDonald House charity and founding Kada’s Promise, a charitable organization providing comfort to children in need through teddy bears and blankets. Through her own childhood struggles, Kadance found solace in a single teddy bear, inspiring her to create a legacy of warmth and support for others facing adversity.
Described by her mother as the “most kindhearted” individual who only desired to spread happiness, Kadance aspired to become a veterinarian and had recently received a full-ride scholarship to Mississippi State University. Her untimely passing deeply impacted the pageant community, with tributes pouring in from friends, family, and fellow contestants who mourned the loss of a bright and compassionate soul.
In honoring Kadance’s memory, her Miss Florida and Teen Florida USA Family shared heartfelt sentiments, reflecting on her ambition, kindness, and leadership within the pageant world. As the community grieves this profound loss, they emphasized the importance of carrying forward Kadance’s legacy of light and positivity, ensuring her impact endures beyond her tragically shortened life.