PONTOON BEACH/ALTON – A family in the Metro East is mourning the death of 17-year-old Janecia Gardner after a fatal crash in Pontoon Beach, and is raising money to help cover funeral and medical costs, as her sister, Quinessa Gardner, was also hospitalized after the accident.
The crash happened at about 11:27 p.m. on May 2, 2026, north of 2188 Illinois State Route 111 in Pontoon Beach. Janecia Gardner, of Alton, was killed, and Quinessa Gardner, 32, of Pontoon Beach, was hospitalized.
Joy Wilkerson has shared GoFundMe information to assist the family after the tragic and life-changing event.
“Our hearts are shattered as our family faces an unimaginable tragedy,” Wilkerson said. “On May 2, 2026, Quinessa Gardner was involved in a devastating car accident that tragically took the life of her beloved sister, Janecia Gardner. While we mourn the heartbreaking loss of Janecia, Quinessa is currently hospitalized, fighting to recover physically, emotionally, and mentally from this traumatic accident.”
Wilkerson said the family created a GoFundMe campaign because “this tragedy has left our family overwhelmed with grief and unexpected financial burdens.”
Donations will go toward “funeral and memorial expenses for Janecia,” “Quinessa’s hospital and medical bills,” “support for Quinessa’s children and their daily needs,” and “transportation, recovery costs, and other unexpected expenses during this difficult journey,” Wilkerson said.
“No family is ever prepared for a loss and hardship of this magnitude,” Wilkerson said, adding that Quinessa Gardner has always been a loving sister, mother, and friend who would give anything to help others, and now she needs the support of her community more than ever.”
Wilkerson asked for “prayers, donations, and shares” of the fundraiser, saying, “Any amount, no matter how small, will make a difference and be deeply appreciated.”
