Fundraiser launched for family of Kamloops mother, son killed in Thursday crash near Chase

“Tristan and Malia have lost both their mom and little brother. Denise was so proud of them, describing them as ‘the most kind and generous babies.’ She held all of them close. As Tristan and Malia grieve alongside their dad, we want them to feel surrounded by our love/care.”

(Image Credit: Contributed/GoFundMe)

The fundraiser has a goal of $11,000 to benefit the family in the months ahead. As of publishing, it had raised just under $7,500.

“Denise was a bright, beautiful light, with an infectious laugh and smile,” fundraiser organizer Trinity B wrote. “She inspired us to lighten up and be the best version of ourselves. She was a spiritual warrior, a knowledge holder and a language warrior, too.

“Her loss is felt throughout their community and Secwepemcúl̓ecw. Her classmates chose her as valedictorian because, in their words, ‘We knew you were the bravest of us all.’”

“Kayden was [Denise’s] ‘lil jokester,’ a boy with a big heart who was ‘the [first] to go without if he wants to share with [you],'” Trinity added. “He had ‘the strength of a mountain’ when standing up to his big brother or sister. And his questions began, ‘Mom, do you know what I’m wondering?’ and led to deep conversations with her.”

“Those who knew him remember a sweetheart who always made sure to say, ‘Good morning.'”

At this time, it is not clear what caused the crash, but police are investigating.

“The loss of life in any incident is tragic, and our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of those affected during this incredibly difficult time,” BC RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Brett Urano said in a statement.

People who witnessed the crash or those with video of the area between 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 1 are asked to contact Chase RCMP at 250-679-3221 and refer to file 2026-2282.

by Victor Kaisar

Fundraiser launched for family of Kamloops mother, son killed in Thursday crash near Chase

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