In northern Idaho, a family is grieving a loss that unfolded in a matter of minutes.
Samantha Jensen of Oldtown recently found a photo her mother had taken of Samantha’s three-year-old daughter, Scarlett. It was time-stamped 4:47 p.m. Five minutes later, doctors pronounced the little girl dead.
The image had been misplaced when Samantha’s mother lost her phone in the chaos. Weeks later, the family recovered it and discovered the picture—capturing what Samantha now calls a peaceful final moment. At first, she could not bear to look. Over time, however, it became a cherished reminder.
Scarlett was born on New Year’s Day in 2019, the first of four children. She adored horses and unicorns, loved Frozen and Spirit, and took pride in being a big sister to Henry, Molly, and Rosie. “The house feels so quiet without her,” Samantha said.
Tragedy struck on October 7, 2022. Scarlett, her grandmother Jamie, and little Henry were walking in the family’s driveway when a speeding SUV hit them. Scarlett died at the scene. Jamie and Henry were badly hurt but survived. Authorities later arrested the driver, who is now serving a 10-year sentence, with two years credited for time served.
Grief, Samantha admits, comes in waves. Therapy and faith are helping. She has shared her story online to encourage others to grieve openly and speak their loved ones’ names. A community fundraiser continues to support the family as they heal and remember a joyful little girl.
