Teen’s Tragic Death While Delivering Christmas Gifts: What Happened?

A community in Washington is grieving the loss of 15-year-old Grace Horn, who tragically died in a car accident while secretly making deliveries to save money for Christmas gifts for her family and friends.

On the morning of December 2, Grace, from Oak Harbor, Washington, left the home where she was staying and went out to earn extra cash for the holidays. Her parents, Jacob and Jennifer Horn, later learned that Grace had used her mother’s DoorDash account without permission. She wanted to surprise her loved ones with Christmas gifts.

“We didn’t know,” said Jennifer, her mother. “I thought she was in bed safe. Sometimes her big heart clouded her judgment.” Jacob, her father, added, “There’s no end to how far she would go for anyone. She always wanted to give to others.”

Around 3 a.m., the Washington State Patrol reported that Grace lost control of her car on Highway 20 near Libbey Road. The thick fog made it hard to see, and she crashed into a pole. Unfortunately, Grace died at the scene. Police said she was likely driving too fast for the conditions.

“She had a mission. She was earning money to buy gifts for Christmas. She loved Christmas,” said Jennifer, describing her daughter. She added that the grief from their loss is “insurmountable.” “It’s like we’re hollow inside,” she said. “You cry, and there are no more tears. You just get a headache from crying.”

Grace was known for her humor and kind spirit. Her mother described her as “witty,” while her father said she was “silly” and always trying to make others laugh.

The local community has been supporting the Horn family with both emotional and financial help. A GoFundMe page, organized by Christine Messmer, raised nearly $21,000 as of December 12. The page said, “No parent should go through this. Instead of wrapping presents for Grace, they are planning her funeral.”

Jennifer, reflecting on the presents that will never be opened, said, “We keep getting emails that the packages are on their way, and it’s just another painful reminder. It’s been so hard.”

Grace’s older brother, Gauvin, is also struggling with the loss but tries to stay strong for his family. “He sees that we are destroyed, so he tries to be strong for us,” said Jennifer.

In honor of Grace’s memory, her parents plan to channel her caring nature into future efforts. Jennifer, a Purple Heart recipient, said she will carry the medal in tribute to her daughter. The family is also considering creating a place for kids called “Grace’s Place” to continue her legacy of kindness.

DoorDash, the delivery service Grace was using, commented on the tragedy, expressing their condolences. They also reminded everyone that Dashers must be at least 18 years old to deliver, and Grace had been using her mother’s account.

Grace’s family will forever remember her as a loving, generous girl who always wanted to make others happy. Rest in peace, Grace. Our hearts are with her family during this incredibly difficult time.