GoFundMe started for families involved in deadly side-by-side incident

POUCE COUPE, B.C. — A GoFundMe in support of the families of five youth involved in a side-by-side incident has raised over $19,000.

The GoFundMe created by Sarah Burzek on June 5th has raised $19,045 as of 1:12 p.m. on June 10th, surpassing its $10,000 goal.

On June 4th at 1 p.m., Dawson Creek RCMP, ambulance services and the Pouce Fire Department responded to the scene of an incident involving a side-by-side vehicle.

Dawson Creek RCMP Staff Sergeant Shawn Peddle said a child was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Police confirmed on June 9th five youths were in the vehicle at the time of the incident, and several occupants were ejected.  

Shock Trauma and Rescue (STARS) media spokesperson Blake Robert confirmed STARS air ambulance responded to the incident and airlifted a child to Edmonton in critical condition. 

An update on the GoFundMe page confirms 7-year-old Jaydn, who was one of the children involved in the crash, passed away after being taken off life support. 

RCMP confirmed Jaydn, who wasn’t named at the time, passed away on June 6th, “despite the best efforts of medical personnel.” 

“No family is ever prepared for a tragedy like this,” the page read. “As the families focus on grieving, they are also facing significant expenses surrounding travel, time away from work, and other arrangements.” 

On June 9th, Dawson Creek RCMP said they had begun an investigation into the incident, which staff sergeant Kris Clark with the BC RCMP called “unimaginable.”

“Our hearts go out to everyone who was impacted by this unthinkable event,” said Clark.” 

“We are asking for help to ease the financial burden during this heartbreaking time. Any donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward helping the family navigate the days and weeks ahead,” the GoFundMe page concluded.