Roadside memorial for Sault crash that killed teen attracting traffic

A makeshift memorial in Sault Ste. Marie has been set up to honour a 15-year-old victim of a collision in the city last weekend.

Sault police are urging people to be cautious when travelling near the site where a teen was killed in a crash last weekend.

The area of Third Line West and Goulais Avenue is seeing an increase in traffic due to a roadside memorial for the 15-year-old killed on an E-bike on Sunday, police spokesperson Lincoln Louttit said.

“Sault police are urging all road users -- drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians -- to remain alert and exercise extra caution when visiting or travelling through the area,” police said in a news release Wednesday morning.

“Your attentiveness will help ensure the safety and well-being of everyone paying their respects or passing by.”

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Fatal crash

The tragedy happened around 1 a.m. April 20 when the victim and another 15-year-old were struck by a pickup truck while they were riding an E-bike.

“Through the investigation officers determined an 18-year-old was driving a pickup truck northbound on Goulais Avenue and when attempting to turn left onto Third Line West, struck the two victims as they were travelling southbound on Goulais Avenue,” police said Sunday on social media.

“Upon arrival, officers observed paramedics providing lifesaving efforts to two patients. Both were transported to hospital. One victim, 15 years of age, succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced deceased. The other victim, 15 years of age, has serious injuries.”

The male pickup truck driver was arrested at the scene and was charged with impaired driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death, impaired driving causing bodily harm, dangerous driving causing bodily harm, novice driver having any alcohol in their system, G1 licence holder driving at an unlawful hour, underage drinking and failing to surrender their driver’s licence.

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The investigation is continuing.

The accused remains in custody pending a bail hearing Thursday.

“Anyone with information on the collision, or who may have security camera or dashcam footage, is encouraged to contact Det. Sgt. Sean O’Dell by calling 705-949-6300, ext. 288,” police said.

Grief support being offered

Following the death, Algoma Family Services is offering grief support for children, youth and families.

“In times of such profound grief and as more information is released on this collision, it is crucial for parents and caregivers to support children and youth as they navigate their emotions,” the agency said in a news release Tuesday.

“Children and youth may exhibit various signs of grief, including confusion, sadness, anger, social withdrawal, sleep difficulties, and changes in academic performance. The stages of grief associated with these signs may not follow a specific order and can be felt and re-experienced at any time during the grieving process.”

Community members in need of support can call 705-945-5050.

“As a father of four boys, with one being the same age as and a friend of the deceased, this tragic loss hits me as a parent in so many ways,” Algoma Family Services CEO Ali Juma is quoted as saying in the news release.

“If you need support as a parent/caregiver in helping your child or youth cope with this loss, please contact us. Our team of dedicated professionals is available to you across the district.”

The agency said parents and caregivers can help youth experiencing grief by:

• Providing a safe space and encouraging open conversations about expressing feelings
• Maintaining routines to provide a sense of stability and security
• Offering comfort by being present, offering hugs and listening without judgment
• Seeking professional mental health support if a child/youth shows signs of prolonged or intense grief