Relatives and friends gathered on February 9, 2024, to commemorate the life of Kenzlie Cavasar, a vibrant 7-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a wrong-way crash earlier this month. The second grader from Rogers Elementary had recently been accepted into a gifted and talented program and had earned significant college scholarships through her success in beauty pageants. Her life was cut short on February 1, 2024, during a collision on U.S. Highway 95 near Needles, California.
Approximately 150 family members, friends, and classmates attended Kenzlie’s funeral service at The Crossing Church. Mourners described her as a “girly girl” who loved fashion and accessories but also enjoyed outdoor activities, often helping her mother chase away bugs. As attendees entered the church, they paused to pay their respects to Kenzlie, whose open casket was surrounded by a sea of floral arrangements in shades of pink, purple, and white, some adorned with jewels and tiaras.
A violinist played “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” as Kenzlie’s mother, Brittani Rowe, approached the casket, visibly overcome with emotion. Following this, a photo montage showcased Kenzlie’s joyful moments at school, competing in pageants, and enjoying time with family and friends.
Details of the Tragic Incident
Kenzlie was one of five individuals in a Chevy Silverado involved in the crash that occurred around 12:45 p.m. The California Highway Patrol reported that the driver of the Chevy was traveling north at an unknown speed when he attempted to pass another vehicle and collided head-on with a southbound Ford Explorer. The driver of the 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 of the crash.
The Bagozzis were wearing their seat belts, while the occupants of the Chevy were not, according to the police report. The investigation is ongoing, and charges may be recommended based on the findings.
Rowe indicated that her daughter was returning from a fishing trip with family friends at the time of the accident. In the aftermath, Rogers Elementary sent a message to parents, expressing the deep loss felt within the school community. “It is never easy to lose a valuable life, especially at a young age, and we will truly remember them as part of our Raptor family,” the statement read.
A Lasting Legacy
Kenzlie’s teacher, Ann Sarmiento, attended the service and contributed a heartfelt message to a memory book, describing Kenzlie as remarkably kind. Sarmiento noted that her bright smile, warm hugs, 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, stating that she “did not live as long as we would have liked, but lived fully.” He emphasized that in her seven short years, she filled her community with light, energy, and love.
Kenzlie, who held the title of Nevada State Cover Girl in the National American Miss pageant for two consecutive years, was also a multiple award winner, including third runner-up in the Miss Nevada Princess competition. Rowe shared that her daughter approached every outing as a fashion opportunity, stating, “She believed every grocery store trip was a runway.”
Kenzlie’s grandmother, Vickie Ann Ingram, highlighted her adventurous spirit, recalling their shared love for zip lines and flying kites. “You made ordinary days extraordinary,” Ingram said. “You taught me how to see the world with wonder again.”
After the service, family and friends gathered in the church courtyard for a butterfly release, a symbolic gesture to honor Kenzlie’s spirit. The atmosphere turned celebratory as children and adults unfolded origami triangles, setting dozens of butterflies free. Kenzlie’s obituary poignantly described her as “like a butterfly,” bringing color and joy to the lives of those around her.
