Student, 20, who overcame being abandoned in Chinese orphanage as a baby and suffering partial leg amputation dies in New England ATV crash
Bruce Kennedy, 20, died in an ATV crash near Wadleigh Pond in Piscataquis County, Maine, on 15 August. Police said he failed to negotiate a bend, lost control while speeding and was not wearing a helmet; he died at the scene. His death has prompted tributes from family, friends, former teammates and colleagues, who remembered his determination and willingness to help others.
Kennedy spent his first two years in a Chinese orphanage before being adopted by John and Lisa Kennedy. At five, a worsening birth defect led to the below-knee amputation of his right leg, but he later competed in wrestling, football and lacrosse at Noble High School and was due to start at York County Community College. His wrestling team praised his positive attitude and effort, while his family described him as strong-willed, practical and deeply caring.
- Maine student Bruce Kennedy, 20, died in an ATV crash.
- Investigators cited speeding and no helmet.
- He was widely admired for resilience after childhood adversity.