The NMU community is mourning the loss of a student after she died in a car accident Sunday. Flags on campus were lowered to half-staff Wednesday, April 17, in remembrance of Keara Bullen, a freshman marketing major who was also on the NMU Women’s Soccer Team as a midfielder.

Bullen, 19, was going northbound on the highway when she lost control of her vehicle and struck two vehicles going the opposite direction. She was traveling toward Marquette.

According to the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred at U.S. 127 and Taft Road, south of St. Johns. Bullen was pronounced dead at the scene. The 19-year-old passenger in Bullen’s car was not hurt.

A silver Dodge Avenger sedan carrying four people was involved in the crash. They were treated at a hospital for non-life-threatening injuries, police said.

A white Kia sedan, was also involved in the crash and was also occupied by four people. Its occupants were treated and released at the scene.
Police also reported multiple vehicles in the ditch, other than the three directly in the crash.

“NMU extends condolences to Keara’s family, suitemates, friends and classmates during this time of their great loss,” a campus-wide email sent out Tuesday, April 16 read. She lived in VanAntwerp hall on NMU’s campus.

Soccer was always a passion for Bullen. She was the captain for her high school’s varsity team for three years, named all conference as a sophomore and junior and earned an all-district honor as a junior.

Bullen was considered a leader and mentor by many, according to her obituary. She volunteered in the community and was involved in a non-denominational youth group.

Bullen also loved music and had “an amazing voice,” according to the obituary. Her friends also “meant the world to her” and she made “life long connections” by interacting with people, her obituary said.

“She will always be remembered by those who knew her best as an independent, confident and free spirited individual,” her obituary read. “Keara will truly be missed.”