Vaughan family launches SickKids fundraiser in memory of 2 children killed by teenage driver

Citynews.ca
May 20, 2021

A family in Vaughan has approved and launched a fundraiser in honour of their two children that were tragically struck and killed by a teenage driver while playing in their driveway last weekend.

The fundraiser, launched through the SickKids foundation, describes their two children -- a boy and a girl aged 4 and 10 -- as loving, free-spirited, and fearless.

“Our loving angel… was a confident athletic girl, who brightened up the world with her beautiful smile. She was an amazing big sister who took care of all those around her,” they wrote.

“Our free-spirited [son] was a vibrant energetic young boy who filled everyone’s hearts with so much love and joy. He was a fearless little boy who was always ready for his next adventure.”

The children both died after they were struck by a car that veered off the road on Athabasca Drive, just off Dufferin Street north of Teston Road on Sunday around noon.

A neighbour who was with the children was also hurt, but his injuries were not life-threatening.

On Tuesday, the family issued a statement through York Regional Police asking for privacy and requesting their children not be named in the media.

“We are extremely traumatized by the tragic loss of our daughter and son. The past days have been extremely difficult for our family. We appreciate the prayers and thoughts of all those grieving with us,” they said through the police force.

“The family is requesting privacy as they attempt to cope with what has occurred. They are asking that the names and photos of their children not be released. They are also asking members of the media to please not film or approach anyone coming or going from the home.”

In a news release Tuesday, York police added that a fake, separate GoFundMe page for the family was not authorized by them.

“The family has advised that this was not created by them and has not been discussed with them in any way.”

Police said a 16-year-old driver from Richmond Hill was taken into custody and is facing multiple charges as a result of the incident.

The teen, who cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, was slated to appear in court today.