Arbor View community marks one year since student killed by drunk driver

A couple of dozen people gathered at the Arbor View High School crosswalk on Saturday morning, holding a moment of silence to mark the one-year anniversary of a student who was killed by a drunk driver.

Just after 11 a.m. on May 2, 2025, 18-year-old McKenzie Scott was crossing North Buffalo Drive near the school when she was struck by a car driven by 37-year-old Keenan Jackson. Police said Jackson’s blood alcohol level was nearly four times the legal limit.

Scott died soon after being transported to the hospital. Jackson pleaded guilty to DUI resulting in death in October and was sentenced in November to eight to 20 years in prison.

At the memorial, Donna Murray wore her granddaughter Scott’s clothing and jewelry — a black Michael Myers T-shirt and Hello Kitty earrings. Murray said that since Scott’s death, even routine errands like grocery shopping have become difficult without her.

“We miss her more than ever,” Murray said.

Behind her, photos of Scott were taped to an electrical box. Attendees placed bouquets in the surrounding rocks and left stuffed animals and ceramic angel figurines.

One watercolor painting left at the memorial read, “One choice can change everything.”

Scott’s mother, Tiffany Reynolds, and brother, Kasen Scott, 12, also attended the memorial. They hugged students and parents who crowded around the memorial.

Since Scott’s death, the crosswalk where she was struck has been repainted, overhead flashing lights have been installed, and a paid guard has been assigned to the site.

Krista Holloway, founder of Walk Safely LV, said the road improvements around the school have made a significant difference. She added that no child has been struck by a car since the changes were implemented.

Reynolds, who delivered brief remarks at the memorial, said that although the past year has been difficult, Scott would have been glad that something positive came from it.

“The last year has been horrible, but we know it has done a lot for the school,” Reynolds said. “We are thankful for the community support.”

Contact Akiya Dillon at adillon@reviewjournal.com.