The tragic loss of a young person’s life is something that leaves a lasting impact on everyone who knew them. Such was the case with Kaylin Gillis, a 20-year-old Saratoga County resident who lost her life due to a terrible mistake. While out with friends, they accidentally pulled into the driveway of Kevin Monahan, a 65-year-old homeowner who tragically ended up taking her life.
Monahan’s reaction was extreme, as he immediately came out of his home with a loaded firearm, shooting at the vehicle carrying Gillis and her friends. The outcome was a heartbreaking tragedy that no community should have to face.
Fortunately, the police were able to arrive on the scene and take control of the situation, eventually subduing Monahan and arresting him on second-degree murder charges. It was clear from the start that he was the aggressor in the situation, with no real threat coming from the vehicle that had pulled into his driveway.
The local sheriff, Jeffrey Murphy, spoke out about the tragedy, expressing his sadness and calling attention to the fact that the car carrying Gillis was parked in Monahan’s driveway for only a brief period of time. In addition, the area around the home was easy to get lost in, making it all the more clear that Monahan overreacted to the situation and used deadly force unnecessarily.
Gillis was beloved by her family and friends, and her loss is felt deeply by all who knew her. Her cousin, Haleigh Eustis, spoke about her and the impact that she had on those around her. She had a bright future ahead of her, with a loving boyfriend and a strong family support system. It is heartbreaking to think about all that she could have accomplished if given the chance.
In an effort to help cover the costs of her funeral and related expenses, those close to Gillis’s family created a GoFundMe account. As of this writing, the fundraiser has raised more than $146,000 on behalf of Andrew Gillis. It is a testament to the love and support that Kaylin had in her life and the impact that she made on those around her.
The tragedy of Kaylin Gillis’s death serves as a reminder that we must always be cautious and measured in our actions. It is never worth taking a life over a mistake, and we must always strive to understand and respect each other, even in difficult situations.
