University of Florida student, 21, dies Sunday following scooter crash on campus

A 21-year-old University of Florida student died Sunday following a scooter crash near the Southwest Recreation Center on campus.

According to a Gainesville Police Department news release, at around 7:30 p.m. Sunday, a gray Mustang was headed east on Hull Road when its driver attempted to make a left turn into a parking lot. At the same time the scooter was headed west on Hull Road. Both vehicles collided, causing the scooter rider to be ejected.

The driver of the scooter, identified by UF spokesperson Cynthia Roldan as Nyla Holland, was transported to a local hospital where she died from her injuries.

GPD’s investigation is ongoing.

Holland, a sophomore majoring in animal sciences, also was a recipient of a U.S. Army ROTC Scholarship commission as a U.S. Army officer and was looking to serve her country upon graduation.

Kati Migliaccio, dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, shared the news in an email to the department and recommended those who knew Holland seek out the university’s counseling services through Counseling Wellness Center or U Matter, We Care.

Migliaccio said Holland was actively involved in the Army ROTC program at UF while volunteering in sporting, recruiting and tabling events.

“She was an outgoing and driven student, who was described as ‘soft-hearted and kind,’ and ‘always having the best smile,’ ” Migliaccio wrote.

The university said it has contacted Holland’s family to provide support and assistance.

This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: UF student, 21, dies Sunday following scooter crash in Ganiesville