More details are starting to come out about a tragic incident that claimed the life of two Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) elders on Wednesday.
TFN has identified the victims who lost their lives after being struck by a vehicle outside Tsawwassen Mills Mall as Virginia Splockton and Barb Joe.
Splockton is being remembered as a “cultural pillar” in the community who loved crafting, drumming and singing, “and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.”
“Her generosity, kindness and dedication to others will be remembered by all who knew her,” a TFN statement issued on behalf of Splockton’s family said.
Joe was a knowledge keeper and matriarch of TFN, a separate statement from her family explained, and was responsible for reviving the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ language.
According to TFN, the incident happened shortly before new house posts were set to be unveiled outside the mall as part of the community’s Truth and Reconciliation Day (TRD) event.
On Wednesday, the Delta Police Department (DPD) said the fatal incident was unrelated to the walk happening at the same time, but somewhat adjusted that statement in an update shared today.
“While the collision was not related to the TRD walk taking place elsewhere on the property, the area where the collision occurred was scheduled to host a house post unveiling following the conclusion of the walk,” the DPD statement explained.
“Although the unveiling had not yet begun, some individuals were present in the area preparing for the ceremony. At this stage of the investigation, there is no information to suggest any connection between the collision and the planned event.”
Both the DPD and TFN maintain that the driver of the vehicle involved in the incident had suffered a medical emergency.
Police say the driver was treated at hospital and has since been released. They are not facing charges at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.
A total of four people were struck by the vehicle and the other two victims were airlifted to hospital for treatment. The DPD says they remain in critical condition.
“We recognize the profound impact this incident has had on the victims, their families, witnesses, first responders and our entire community,” said S/Sgt. Mike Whiteley.
“Our investigators are working diligently to determine exactly what occurred and to conduct a thorough investigation into all of the circumstances surrounding this collision.”
The TFN offices are closed today and Friday as a result of the tragedy, but the First Nation expects to continue communications online as the situation develops.
“During this incredibly difficult time, we are grateful for the care, compassion and support that has been extended to TFN,” the First Nation’s statement added.
“Thank you to everyone who has reached out regarding donations for the families; more information will be shared soon on our website, Facebook and Instagram.”
