PUEBLO, CO — A tragic accident has claimed the life of a 13-year-old girl in Pueblo after she fell 25 feet onto a gym floor. The incident occurred on the evening of Friday, April 18, at the Rocky Mountain Service Employment & Redevelopment (RMSER) Empowerment Center, located on Lake Avenue.
According to the Pueblo Police Department, the young girl was attending a “youth kickback” event at the center when the accident took place. Police investigations revealed that the girl, along with four other children, was exploring the building unsupervised. The group discovered a ladder leading to the attic of the building and proceeded to climb up. While walking across wooden beams in the attic, the girl lost her balance and tragically fell through the ceiling, landing 25 feet below on the gym floor.
Despite immediate life-saving efforts from fire and rescue personnel on the scene and later at a local hospital, the girl succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead on Friday evening.
The RMSER staff issued a statement expressing their grief and sorrow over the loss of the young girl, identified as Joeylin. “It is with profoundly broken hearts that we at RMSER mournfully share with you the heartbreaking news of a tragic loss within our community,” the statement read. “Joeylin was a bright and beloved light in our community, and her sudden passing is a devastating blow to all who knew and loved her.”
The staff also confirmed that the RMSER Pueblo Empowerment Center would remain closed until at least Monday, April 29, 2025, as the investigation into the incident continues. This closure includes the RMSER Pantry, which will also not be open during this time.
Joeylin was known for her vibrant personality and deep commitment to her community. She was a 2024 Runner-Up Pre-Teen and the Spirit Winner for the Miss Pueblo County Scholarship Pageant. Her enthusiasm for community service, particularly through mentoring younger members and contributing to float projects for the pageant, left a lasting impact on those around her.
The Miss Pueblo County Scholarship Pageant shared a tribute to Joeylin, highlighting her infectious energy and passion. “Joeylin was a shining light, filling rooms with her laughter and touching countless lives,” the pageant’s statement said. “As we approach the pageant, just a couple of weeks away, her enthusiasm and preparation were truly inspiring. This Saturday, at our final workshop, we will wear pink in her honor.”
Joeylin’s death has left the Pueblo community in mourning, with friends, family, and local organizations offering support to those grieving. Her passing serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, and her spirit is remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fall, the RMSER community remains united in their grief and commitment to supporting Joeylin’s family during this difficult time.
