The community of Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, is mourning the tragic loss of Aurora Keats, a vibrant young girl whose life was cut short in an ATV accident on March 10, 2025. She was just a teenager, full of life, dreams, and an infectious energy that left a mark on everyone she met.
Born on April 18 in St. John’s, Aurora was a beloved daughter, friend, and teammate. She was known for her bright blue eyes, blonde hair, and radiant spirit that could light up any room. She lived in Gander, where she was actively involved in sports and her community. Fondly nicknamed “Angel,” Aurora was deeply cherished by her friends and family.
On the evening of March 10, Aurora was riding a side-by-side ATV on the Newfoundland T’Railway near Joe Batts Pond, west of Gander, when the vehicle lost control and overturned. Despite efforts to save her, Aurora succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Another youth who was with her was transported to the James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre with non-life-threatening injuries. The community has been left devastated by the sudden loss of such a promising young soul.
Heartfelt Tributes
Those who knew Aurora have shared their grief and cherished memories, remembering her as a lively and compassionate individual.
- Sharon Harris expressed, “This is totally heartbreaking and devastating! Aurora certainly loved life. Her outgoing and bubbly personality said it all. She would lighten up a room with her presence. Rest easy, sweet girl. Keep a watch over your girls—every tournament and competition they will fight harder just for you. Just remember, you were loved by all.”
- Delanie Chang shared, “Aurora, you touched my heart so deeply that I will be forever changed from this. You were a light, a spark, and a firecracker. It’s going to be hard to get back in that gym without you, but I promised you I’d be with you until you graduated high school. I don’t plan on breaking that promise now that you’re not here. But you have to promise me that you’ll be with me and your team along the way. You will be forever missed.”
- Janine Chaulk mourned, “Thinking about my baby girl Kendra and all of her friends and teammates as they lost such a beautiful person. Aurora, you will be missed. I know you are up there giving everyone the biggest hug as you loved to do when you saw Kendra. Going to miss seeing your smile at volleyball tournaments, and I know Kendra and the rest of your friends are going to miss seeing you as well. Fly high, beautiful girl. No one should ever have to say goodbye to their kids.”
Aurora was an integral part of Team Airials, where she was known for her dedication, passion, and uplifting spirit. Joanne Power of Airials Gymnastics reflected on Aurora’s impact: “Last weekend, as I watched our Airials family pull together to host our third annual Shine Bright Invitational, I started telling our coaches, athletes, and parents that we had lots of triple AAA teams at Airials. I proceeded to make up names like ‘All Airials Alumni,’ ‘Airials Awesome Athletes,’ and ‘Airials Associated Adults.’ Now this week, we’ve lost a true triple AAA—Airials Amazing Aurora. You will live forever in all the beautiful memories you brought to Team Airials every time you entered that gym. Cheering on peers, inspiring young athletes, dressing up in a monkey suit, or bantering with Coach Kerry LeGrow Wheaton—you brought JOY, Aurora.”
Aurora’s tragic passing has left an irreplaceable void in her community, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. Her family, friends, and teammates will forever cherish the moments they shared with her, honoring her legacy through the love and passion she poured into every aspect of her life.
May she rest in peace, forever soaring among the stars.