A family’s Christmas celebration in Alabama turned into an unimaginable tragedy when a 16-year-old girl who appeared “absolutely fine” suddenly collapsed and died just moments after opening gifts with her loved ones.
Scarlett Durden was spending Christmas Day at home in Piedmont with her family, enjoying what her mother described as a normal, happy holiday. According to her mother, Janice Durden, nothing seemed out of the ordinary as the family finished unwrapping presents and shared the moment with Scarlett’s father through FaceTime. He was spending the holiday in the hospital, awaiting a heart transplant.
Moments later, everything changed.
Scarlett walked into another room to grab a snack. A short time later, her younger sister noticed something was wrong. “Hey, Mom, Scarlett’s acting weird. She’s not talking to me,” Janice recalled her 12-year-old daughter saying. When Janice rushed to check on her, she found Scarlett on the floor and unresponsive.
She immediately called 911 and began performing CPR until emergency crews arrived.
Despite nearly 90 minutes of life-saving efforts, doctors were unable to revive Scarlett. She was pronounced dead later that day, leaving her family in shock.
Doctors have not yet confirmed the exact cause of death. Sudden cardiac arrest is suspected, and an autopsy is pending. The family has said there is a known history of heart disease, and medical professionals were aware of potential risks.
Scarlett’s father, Marvy Durden II, who remained hospitalized at the time, was informed of his daughter’s death with medical staff present to support him.
Those who knew Scarlett describe her as kind, goofy, and full of joy. She was a student at Piedmont High School and had recently moved with her family from Georgia. Friends, classmates, and community members have rallied around the family, offering support and donations to help cover funeral expenses.
Scarlett’s funeral is scheduled for January 3. Her family says they hope sharing her story will remind others to cherish every moment with their loved ones, because life can change without warning.