Ava Hulett, a beloved resident of Estero, Florida, and former student of Newsome High School, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024. The heartbreaking news was confirmed through a poignant social media post, which read, “Yesterday, one of my childhood best friends passed away. I woke up this morning in complete denial and trying to wrap my head around why it was Ava. Ava was a girl who always had me laughing. Any room she walked into lit up instantly and now that light is gone.”
The untimely death of Ava Hulett has sent ripples of sorrow throughout her community and beyond, leaving those who knew her grappling with immense grief. As the sister of James “Bradley” Hulett, a 2019 homicide victim, Ava’s life was marked by profound tragedy and resilience. Her passing adds another layer of pain for a family that has already endured unspeakable loss.
The Early Life and Joyful Spirit of Ava Hulett
Ava Hulett was known for her vivacious personality and infectious laughter. Born and raised in Estero, Florida, she attended Newsome High School, where she was remembered fondly by her peers and teachers. Ava’s bright spirit and ability to light up any room were defining characteristics that left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. She was described as someone who brought joy and warmth into the lives of others, always ready with a kind word or a joke to lift spirits.
Friends recall Ava as a beacon of positivity, someone who could find humor even in the darkest times. Her ability to make others laugh was a testament to her strength and character. Ava’s social media profiles were filled with memories of adventures, laughter, and moments of genuine happiness, reflecting a life lived with exuberance and an open heart.
Tragedy Strikes: The Death of Bradley Hulett
The Hulett family first faced unimaginable heartbreak in December 2019 when Ava’s brother, James “Bradley” Hulett, was tragically killed. Bradley, then a student at Newsome High School, was shot at a friend’s house in Lithia, Florida, on December 13, 2019. The incident occurred at the residence of a Tampa police officer, near Dorman Road and Churchside Drive. Bradley was among four teenagers present at the time of the shooting.
Despite efforts to save him, Bradley was declared dead after being transported to Brandon Regional Hospital. The shock and grief that followed Bradley’s death were compounded by the circumstances surrounding it. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation, but the details and events leading to the shooting remained a source of anguish and unanswered questions for the family.
Ava’s Struggle and Resilience
Bradley’s death had a profound impact on Ava. The loss of her brother was a wound that never fully healed. Ava struggled to cope with the trauma and the overwhelming grief that followed. The halls of Newsome High School, once a place of learning and friendship, became a source of anxiety and pain. Ava found it increasingly difficult to attend school, as being there brought back memories of her brother and the people involved in the tragic incident.
In a statement to the Hillsborough County School Board, Ava expressed the depth of her distress, revealing that she suffered from panic attacks whenever she encountered those she believed were responsible for her brother’s death. This debilitating anxiety forced her to leave school, as the emotional toll became too great to bear. Ava’s struggle was a poignant reminder of the long-lasting impact of trauma and loss, highlighting the need for compassion and support for those affected by such tragedies.
The Circumstances of Ava Hulett’s Death
The details surrounding Ava Hulett’s death on June 15, 2024, remain shrouded in uncertainty. The family has not released specific information about the cause of her passing, asking for privacy during this incredibly difficult time. Ava’s mother, in a heartfelt social media post, expressed the depth of her sorrow and despair, saying, “I will not survive another funeral. I will not survive another cremation. I will not survive another homicide investigation! I cannot survive without my babies.”
This statement encapsulates the profound grief and sense of loss that Ava’s family is experiencing. The community, too, is mourning the loss of a young woman whose life was cut tragically short. Friends, family, and community members have come together to offer their condolences and support, sharing memories and tributes to Ava’s bright and joyful spirit.
Remembering Ava: Tributes and Memories
In the wake of Ava’s passing, social media has been flooded with tributes and memories from those who knew her. Friends have shared stories of Ava’s kindness, her ability to make them laugh, and the countless moments of joy she brought into their lives. These tributes paint a picture of a young woman who was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.
One friend wrote, “Ava was one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met. She had this incredible ability to make you feel seen and heard. No matter what was going on in her life, she always made time for her friends. Her laughter was contagious, and her smile could brighten the darkest day. I can’t believe she’s gone. The world is a little dimmer without her in it.”
Another post read, “I’ve known Ava since we were kids. She was always the life of the party, the one who could turn any situation into something fun. She had this incredible energy that drew people to her. Losing her is like losing a part of myself. I’ll miss her more than words can say.”
A Community in Mourning
The Estero community has come together in the wake of Ava’s death, offering support and solace to the Hulett family. Vigils and memorials have been organized to honor Ava’s memory, providing a space for friends and loved ones to come together, share their grief, and celebrate the life of a remarkable young woman. These gatherings have been a testament to the impact Ava had on those around her, reflecting the deep connections she formed throughout her life.
