The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Staff Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A 26-year-old mother died early Sunday after her car overturned and slammed into a concrete utility pole on East Sunrise Highway in Grand Bahama.

Police had not officially released the victim’s identity up to press time, but she is believed to be Nica Julien.

Police said the crash happened shortly after 11pm on Saturday and involved a burgundy Ford Focus.

Officers found the woman outside the vehicle when they arrived. Emergency Medical Services personnel took her to Rand Memorial Hospital, where doctors treated her.

She died from her injuries at about 12.35am on Sunday.

Preliminary investigations indicate the woman was travelling west on East Sunrise Highway and trying to overtake another vehicle when she lost control. Police said the car struck the centre median, overturned and collided with a concrete utility pole.

The vehicle was extensively damaged.

Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey issued condolences on Sunday, mourning Julien’s death.

"Today, we join our community in mourning the passing of Nica Julien," Ms Moxey said. "To family, friends, and all who knew and loved Nica, please accept our sincere and heartfelt condolences during this time of profound loss."

Julien, the mother of a young son, was described as vibrant and caring. She was recently employed at Celebration Key.

Ms Moxey said she was praying for Julien’s family and friends.

"We pray that God grants you comfort, strength, and peace in the days ahead, and that the love and support of those around you will help carry you through. May Nica's memory forever live on in the hearts of those whose lives she touched," she said.

Julien’s death prompted an outpouring of grief on social media, where friends expressed shock and sadness.

One close friend described Julien as "the light to brighten a room when you enter" and thanked her for "the laughs we shared, the shoulder to cry on, and being the overall gem that you were."

The friend also recalled Julien’s "infectious smile" and said she would be deeply missed by those whose lives she touched.