EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Borderland community is remembering a Las Cruces teenager, Samantha Bursum, after she died Friday, March 1 in a car accident.
The 14-year-old was traveling to Midland, Texas to a club-sponsored volleyball tournament when the SUV she was in crashed into another vehicle.
Bursum’s volleyball club, the Three Crosses, told KTSM:
“Sam embodied the true essence of sportsmanship and camaraderie both on and off the volleyball court. Her unwavering determination, kindness, and selflessness were a source of inspiration to us all. She approached every challenge with grace and resilience, uplifting those around her with her infectious spirit. Sam leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and compassion that will forever be etched in our hearts. We are profoundly grateful for the privilege of having known her and are better individuals, coaches, and teammates because of her influence.”
Las Cruces Public Schools said Bursum also played volleyball for Las Cruces High School, was involved in student government, marching band and was enrolled in advanced placement courses.
Miranda Escobar, a coach for Rapidfire Volleyball Club in El Paso said the volleyball community is close knit especially in the Southwest region.
“Parents get to know each other from different teams. Teams from Las Cruces, teams that travel. So, everybody knows how everybody is doing,” said Escobar.
She said Rapidfire’s teams have been reflecting on Bursum’s passing.
“Knowing that you could have been on the same court receiving one of her serves or receiving one of her hits, aceing her out, doing anything against her team. It’s a big shock,” said Escobar.
Escobar said many of the teams in the Borderland go to the same tournaments, travel the same roads and stay in the same hotels which makes the thought of traveling for future games scary for some club members.
“The girls in our club must feel scared to travel and scared to play their next coming traveling tournament. But the love for volleyball is so strong, especially in this region,” said Escobar.
According to LCPS there are counseling services available to students and staff offered by Ben Archer School Based Health Clinic.
To request to speak with a counselor during normal business hours, people can call (575) 541-5941 and ask to speak to Danielle.
For immediate support, text 741741 or access the crisis text line directly through the LCPS STOPit app.
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