St. Louis, Missouri – A 16-year-old teenager, Kaylee Gain, suffered severe brain injuries after an altercation that resulted in part of her skull being removed to assist in her recovery. The incident, in which Gain was allegedly attacked by a 15-year-old named Maurnice DeClue, left her in a life-threatening condition, with a skull fracture and frontal lobe damage. Despite the intense March 8 brawl being captured on camera near her high school, Gain has now been released from the intensive care unit.
Following the violent attack that led to Gain’s hospitalization, her family provided updates on her health, stating that although she is now at home after a long hospital stay and in-patient rehabilitation, she still faces a challenging road ahead. A GoFundMe page was set up to support her recovery, revealing that a portion of Gain’s skull had to be removed to relieve pressure on her brain, necessitating the need for a custom helmet. An additional surgery to reattach the skull portion is in the works, requiring further hospitalization.
The family shared that Gain is undergoing extensive neuropsychological testing to assess the long-term impact of her injuries on cognitive function. They mentioned her struggle with short-term memory loss and the emotional trauma, fear, and pain she experiences due to the incident. Gain’s parents also expressed concerns about DeClue, the accused attacker, who is facing assault charges and may be tried as an adult, pending a certification hearing.
Despite DeClue’s parents reportedly expressing a desire for her to apologize to Gain, tensions remain high as both families await legal proceedings. The developments surrounding DeClue’s case, including fundraising efforts for legal fees and uncertainties about the trial as an adult, add complexity to an already challenging situation for all involved. The St. Louis County Circuit Court continues to deliberate on the appropriate course of action for DeClue, as Gain’s family navigates the complexities of seeking justice and recovery in the aftermath of a traumatic event.