Lansdowne Community Gathers To Remember Teen Who Died Suddenly

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A community is mourning the life of a teenage girl who died suddenly last Saturday after she went into cardiac arrest after battling the flu.

Hundreds came out to a candlelight vigil in Kayla Linton's memory was held Saturday evening in the back parking lot of Arbutus Middle School.

An incredible showing of support for a family enduring great loss. It's clear Kayla Linton made a big impact in her 17 years. Kayla Linton proved Saturday night
she can still light up a room.

17-year-old Kayla was a Lansdowne High School senior and admired student-athlete.

"She was a ray of sunshine."

Just days after the 17-year-old Landsdowne student died unexpectedly, devastated friends and family gathered in her name.

Family and friends said Kayla had been fighting the flu days before and then suddenly went into cardiac arrest. Students told WJZ there's been a national and international outpouring of support for Kayla.

"This really is truly amazing. I did not expect this big of a turnout. With everything that's been happening, we're so thankful for everybody that's been helping us and everything," says William Linton, Kayla's brother.

Kayla's death has rocked this community, and her parents are now coping with the loss of their only daughter.

Kayla was a star basketball, lacrosse, and track athlete at Landsdowne high school, and was well-liked by fellow students and teachers.

"She was friends with literally every type of student in the building, friends with every athlete in the building. She was an amazing person to be around," says Lansdowne High School teacher and coach, Shaun Murphy.

Earlier this week, students and friends packed the Landsdowne gym for a tribute game.

Reminders of Kayla's number 19 were on nearly every wall. Students, teachers, friends and family are leaning on each other and coping without Kayla.

"We will miss you. And we love you."
"We definitely love you."

Condolences online have come from all over the world, including the military base in Germany where Kayla's brother is stationed.

The Lansdowne High School athletic department is collecting donations for a scholarship in Kayla's honor.

There will also be an auction on February 22, at the Loyal Order of Moose Lodges in Glen Burnie for a fundraiser in Kayla's honor for the Athletics Department. For more information about the event CLICK HERE.

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