The Apollo Beach community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 16-year-old Alexa “Lexi” Jewel Ringo, a vibrant young woman whose life was cut short in a tragic DUI-related crash.
Her passing has left a profound void in the lives of her family, friends, classmates, and neighbors, all of whom remember her as a compassionate, driven, and inspiring presence.
Lexi was a student who embodied leadership and service. As Junior Class President, she was deeply involved in her school community, balancing academics with extracurricular activities and volunteer work.
She was known among her peers for her kindness, reliability, and ability to bring people together. Teachers and classmates alike recall her as someone who led by example never seeking attention, but earning respect through her actions and her genuine care for others.
An avid golfer, Lexi spent countless hours on the course, developing not only her athletic skills but also the discipline and focus that shaped her character. Golf was more than a sport for her; it was a space where she learned perseverance, sportsmanship, and confidence.
These qualities carried over into every aspect of her life, from student leadership to community service. Lexi also had aspirations of pursuing a career in medicine, a goal inspired by her desire to help others and make a meaningful difference in the world.
The tragic accident occurred on December 26, 2025, when Lexi was a passenger in a vehicle that was struck by a drunk driver. The suddenness of the loss has shaken the Apollo Beach and Waterset communities, prompting an outpouring of grief and remembrance.
Vigils, tributes, and messages of support have highlighted not only the sorrow of losing Lexi, but also the immense impact she had in her short life.
In the wake of this tragedy, Waterset residents are channeling their grief into action. Community members are advocating for stronger safety measures in their neighborhood, including increased traffic enforcement, enhanced signage, and broader awareness campaigns about the dangers of impaired driving.
Their hope is that by pushing for meaningful change, Lexi’s legacy can help protect others and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Lexi’s story is a painful reminder of the consequences of drunk driving and the innocent lives it endangers. At the same time, it is a testament to how one young person’s life can leave a lasting imprint on a community.
Though her future was filled with promise, Lexi will be remembered not for what was lost, but for what she gave her leadership, her compassion, and her unwavering commitment to making the world around her better.
As Apollo Beach mourns, it also honors Lexi by standing together, remembering her light, and striving to ensure that her legacy inspires safer roads and stronger communities.
