In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Pricola family has been struck by an unimaginable tragedy that has left their community in deep mourning.

Lauren Pricola’s young daughter, Riley, only 6 years old, has passed away shortly after the loss of her father, Ed Pricola.

Highlights

Lauren’s husband and Riley’s father, Ed’s death, had already left the family struggling with grief.
At just six years old, Riley tragically passed away, leaving the family reeling from the unbearable loss of both father and daughter.
Their community shares the overwhelming grief felt by the Pricola family, as everyone honors the memories of both Ed and Riley.

Ed, a respected member of his community and a devoted father, succumbed to a sudden illness earlier this year, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and hard work.

The subsequent loss of young Riley, whose vibrant spirit had begun to shine despite her tender age, has compounded the sorrow experienced by her family and loved ones.

So follow along and learn more about the impact on the Pricola family and the community’s response to these devastating losses.

The death of Riley’s dad ed had already been a difficult time for the Pricola family.

Ed Pricola was widely known in his community as a dedicated father, a hardworking professional, and a compassionate individual who never hesitated to help.

His sudden passing due to being in a Care Flight crash has sent shockwaves through his circle of friends, colleagues, and neighbors.

The young pediatric patient that was on the plane that crashed shortly after takeoff, had just undergone life-saving medical treatment at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia. She had been discharged right before the crashed. She was heading home to Mexico, with a stop in Missouri.… pic.twitter.com/qeyFISbn0Z

— 🇺🇸ProudArmyBrat (@leslibless) February 1, 2025

Ed’s commitment to his work and family was evident throughout his life, and his absence has left an unfillable void.

In the wake of his death, Lauren Pricola found herself facing the unbearable challenge of mourning her partner while trying to provide stability for their children.

The emotional toll was immense as his death not only disrupted the daily life of the family but also set off a chain reaction of grief that would eventually engulf the entire household.

Friends and community members rallied around the Pricola family, offering support through organized vigils, meals, and donations to help them navigate this period of profound loss.

Despite these external supports, Lauren and her family experience immense private sorrow. Each day is marked by memories of Ed’s kindness, warm laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family’s well-being.

Riley Pricola’s Untimely Death Has left her Family Mourning even greatly.

Tragedy compounded further when, not long after Ed’s passing, 6-year-old Riley Pricola also died under circumstances that left the family and community in a state of disbelief and profound sadness.

Riley, known for her bright smile and gentle nature, had been struggling to cope with the loss of her father.

🚨 #BREAKING: The medical jet which crashed in Philly was transporting a pediatric patient, per the operator Jet Air Ambulance

No survivors are expected.

Absolutely heartbreaking. pic.twitter.com/AZUqyH3L6c

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) February 1, 2025

Although specific details regarding the cause of Riley’s death have not been fully disclosed, preliminary reports indicate that the overwhelming grief and stress within the household may have contributed to her deteriorating health.

Medical experts suggest that the combination of emotional trauma and an underlying vulnerability might have led to a fatal collapse, though an official cause of death is still under investigation.

The loss of a child is a sorrow that words cannot fully capture, and for Lauren Pricola, the simultaneous loss of her partner and her daughter has brought about an unbearable level of grief.

The Pricola family’s ordeal has touched many, prompting a heartfelt outpouring of sympathy and support from extended family members, friends, local religious communities, and even strangers who have followed the story through media outlets.

Public memorials have been organized, and online fundraisers have been set up in an attempt to help the remaining family members cope with the financial and emotional burden of such a multi-layered tragedy.

The emotional impact on the community is also significant, as neighbors and schoolmates of young Riley remember her as a hopeful, joyful child whose potential was tragically cut short.

Additional Infomation

Ed worked as a Flight Nurse on board and lived his life serving others.
Before Ed was a Flight Nurse for Care Flight or a Charge Nurse in a hospital, he was an Infantry Non-Commissioned Officer in the Marine Corps.
His wife Lauren and his son Everett are the only surviving members of the Pricola Family.