MOORESVILLE, N.C. — The Mooresville community is mourning the tragic loss of 16-year-old Julia Rooney, a talented cheerleader and student at Woodland Heights Middle School, who was killed in a golf cart accident on Monday evening, March 23, 2026.

According to the Mooresville Police Department, officers responded to the crash around 5:14–5:15 p.m. at the intersection of Swamp Rose Drive and Golden Star Lane in a residential subdivision off Brawley School Road, near Lake Norman and Woodland Heights Elementary and Middle Schools. The incident involved several juveniles riding in the golf cart. No other vehicle was involved. Julia sustained serious injuries and was later pronounced dead.

Police have described the event as a golf cart accident and stated that the investigation remains ongoing. A crash reconstruction team returned to the scene on Tuesday to continue gathering evidence. Authorities have not released additional details, including the cause of the crash, the speed of the vehicle, the identity of the driver, the exact number of occupants, or whether any charges are expected. The Mooresville Police Department issued a brief statement: “Our thoughts are with the families impacted during this difficult time.”

Julia Rooney, born October 11, 2009, was an active member of ATA Cheer Lake Norman, a local cheerleading and tumbling center. In a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, the organization remembered her warmly: “Julia Rooney was not only a teammate, but a friend, a light in our gym, and someone who made an impact on everyone she met. The mat will never feel the same without her.” They added that from her early days as a youth athlete through her teenage years, she “always carried the same bright smile.”

In response to the tragedy, Iredell-Statesville Schools made counselors and support services available to students and staff at Woodland Heights Middle School throughout the week.

The loss has deeply affected the local cheer community and the broader Mooresville area, with friends, teammates, coaches, and neighbors sharing memories of Julia’s uplifting presence and positive energy. Many have described her as a bright, joyful young woman whose enthusiasm touched everyone around her.

As the investigation continues, police have asked for patience while they work to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. The community is coming together to support Julia’s family during this incredibly difficult time, with calls for caution when operating golf carts or any vehicles in residential neighborhoods, especially those shared by young people.

This heartbreaking incident serves as a solemn reminder of how quickly life can change. Julia Rooney’s vibrant spirit and the joy she brought to her teammates and school will be deeply missed. The thoughts and condolences of many are with her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her.