Relatives and friends gathered on February 9, 2024, to honor the life of Kenzlie Cavasar, a vibrant 7-year-old who tragically lost her life in a wrong-way crash on U.S. Highway 95 near Needles, California. Kenzlie, a second grader at Rodgers Elementary, had recently been accepted into a gifted and talented program and earned significant college scholarships through her achievements in beauty pageants.
The funeral service brought together approximately 150 family members, friends, and classmates, who shared stories and memories of Kenzlie. Described as a “girly girl” with a passion for accessories and painted nails, she also enjoyed outdoor adventures, helping her mother by chasing away bugs. Mourners paid their respects at The Crossing Church, where Kenzlie’s open casket was surrounded by floral arrangements in shades of pink, purple, and white, some adorned with jewels and tiaras.
A poignant moment came when a violinist played “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” while Kenzlie’s mother, Brittani Rowe, approached the casket, visibly grieving as she spent several minutes honoring her daughter. Following this, a photo montage displayed Kenzlie’s infectious smile, showcasing her time at school, her beauty pageant victories, and treasured moments with family and friends.
Details of the Tragic Crash
On February 1, Kenzlie was one of five individuals in a Chevy Silverado pickup involved in the collision. The California Highway Patrol reported that the driver of the Chevy was traveling north at an unknown speed when they attempted to overtake another vehicle. This maneuver resulted in a head-on collision with a Ford Explorer heading south.
The crash occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. and left both vehicles on the highway shoulder. Tragically, the driver of the Ford Explorer, identified as Robert Bagozzi, aged 78, and his wife, Wendy Bagozzi, were pronounced dead at the scene. Kenzlie also succumbed to her injuries at the site, as confirmed by the coroner’s office. Reports indicated that while the Bagozzis were wearing their seat belts, the occupants of the Chevy were not.
The California Highway Patrol has stated that the investigation into the crash is ongoing, and charges, if any, will be determined once the investigation concludes. Rowe revealed that Kenzlie was returning from a fishing trip with family friends when the incident occurred.
Remembering Kenzlie’s Spirit
Following Kenzlie’s death, Rodgers Elementary shared a heartfelt message with parents, acknowledging the profound loss of such a young life. The statement emphasized that Kenzlie would be remembered as part of their “Raptor family.” Her teacher, Ann Sarmiento, attended the funeral and described Kenzlie in a memory book as remarkably kind, noting that her bright smile and gentle heart “made every day better for all of us.”
Pastor Dan Ward, who led the service, reflected on Kenzlie’s brief but impactful life. “She did not live as long as we would have liked, but she lived fully,” he said. “In her seven short years, she filled this city with light, energy, and more love than most people manage to do over the course of a much longer lifetime.”
Known for her love of singing and performing, Kenzlie held the title of Nevada State Cover Girl in the National American Miss pageant for two consecutive years and also secured third runner-up in the Miss Nevada Princess competition. Her mother described her as a fashionista, insisting that every outing, including trips to the grocery store, was an opportunity to showcase her style. “Ballgowns, heels, blush, and accessories were not optional — they were essential,” Rowe said.
Kenzlie’s grandmother, Vickie Ann Ingram, shared her memories of their adventures together, highlighting their shared enjoyment of zip-lining and flying kites. “You made ordinary days extraordinary,” Ingram said, adding, “You taught me how to see the world with wonder again.”
After the service, Kenzlie’s family participated in a butterfly release in the church courtyard. Laughter filled the air as children and adults unfolded origami triangles, setting dozens of butterflies free. Kenzlie’s obituary poignantly captured her spirit, stating that she was “like a butterfly,” bringing beauty and color into the lives of those who loved her.
