Baton Rouge, Louisiana, September 19, 2025
News Summary
Katie Guillory, a former LSU softball player, suffered a severe injury resulting in the amputation of her lower left leg due to a jet ski accident on July 4th. The accident, caused by a large wave, left her in critical condition and required emergency medical attention. The community has come together to support her recovery, raising significant funds through a GoFundMe campaign and a blood drive. As an athlete and coach, Guillory faces challenges ahead, but the support from friends and the community is proving vital.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana — Katie Guillory, a former LSU softball player, lost part of her lower left leg due to a jet ski accident that took place on July 4th during the Independence Day holiday. The accident occurred while she was jet skiing when a large wave from a wake boat caused her leg to become entangled in a rope, resulting in her falling off the jet ski.
In the aftermath of the incident, Guillory described a horrifying scene where half of her leg was hanging by a rope and she was bleeding profusely. Immediate medical attention was critical; she was airlifted to Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge for emergency treatment. Unfortunately, doctors were unable to restore blood flow, leading to an amputation of her lower left leg.
Guillory expressed difficulty accepting the loss of her leg, noting that her identity as an athlete has been fundamentally altered. She is a lifelong athlete and has served as the strength and conditioning coach for LSU’s gymnastics team. Since the accident, her friends played a crucial role in her survival, and emergency services deemed their response effective.
In support of Guillory’s recovery, the community initiated a blood drive, which raised nearly $2,000 for her medical expenses. Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign established for her support had raised over $74,000 as of September 15. The campaign stressed her resilience, highlighting her nickname “Steel Guil” and lauding her mental fortitude as a critical factor in her survival.
Her mother, Cindy Guillory, has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community and has recognized the emotional challenges Katie is facing. Katie played outfield for LSU’s softball team from 2009 to 2013 and is a graduate of Carencro High School in Lafayette, Louisiana. She has been involved in coaching at LSU since 2022 after previous coaching roles at the University of Illinois and Liberty University.
The LSU community has rallied around Guillory, sending prayers and well wishes for her recovery. In an update from Cindy, it was reported that Katie’s surgery went smoothly and that she is currently resting.
Key Details
- Name: Katie Guillory
- Incident Date: July 4th
- Injury: Amputation of lower left leg
- Medical Facility: Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center
- Total Funds Raised: Over $74,000 (as of September 15)
Background Context
Katie Guillory previously played for LSU’s softball team, having been an athlete her entire life. She began coaching at LSU in 2022, bringing experience from other coaching positions. Her accident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with recreational activities like jet skiing, highlighting the importance of safety and quick emergency response.
FAQ
What happened to Katie Guillory?
Katie Guillory, a former LSU softball player, lost part of her lower left leg due to a jet ski accident on July 4th.
Where was Katie Guillory treated?
Guillory was airlifted to Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge for emergency treatment.
How much money has been raised for Katie’s medical expenses?
A GoFundMe campaign established for her support raised over $74,000 as of September 15.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injury | Amputation of lower left leg |
| Incident Date | July 4th |
| Community Support | Over $74,000 raised through GoFundMe |
| Emergency Care | Treated at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- People: LSU Coach Loses Part of Leg in Jet Ski Accident
- Wikipedia: Katie Guillory
- Tiger Rag: LSU Coach Suffers Jet Ski Accident
- Google Search: Katie Guillory Jet Ski Accident
- NOLA: LSU Softball Junior Enters Transfer Portal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jet Safety
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
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