Family and friends have identified the young boy killed in a tragic crash in Mill Bay on Monday evening.
Avery Oye, 11, was pronounced dead at the scene after he collided with a pick-up truck towing a boat at the corner of Benko Road and Kearny Place.
In a GoFundMe campaign, Avery is described as a brilliant young boy who was greatly creative.
“He spent his free time building models, painting and drawing, as well as learning to play the cello. He lived with his mother Sarah and father Kiyo at their hobby farm in Mill Bay,” read the GoFundMe.
“He was very involved in the farm, and most loved their bunnies and his dog, Charlie.”
The collision remains under investigation, however, police believe the cyclist failed to stop at the stop sign and made a left (northbound) turn onto Benko Road.
“The driver of the pickup truck was unable to stop in time, and collided with the cyclist,” said Commander Tim Desaulniers Shawnigan Lake RCMP Detachment.
Shawnigan Lake RCMP said the investigation is still ongoing and they’re being assisted by the Vancouver Island Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service (ICARS).
“Victim Services was called out immediately, and anyone who saw this incident and is having difficulties is encouraged to reach out to them, or the Shawnigan Lake RCMP for assistance,” adds Desaulniers.
“The driver is co-operating with the investigation, and initially it does not appear to be any criminality in this tragic collision.”
Money raised from the GoFundMe will go towards helping Oye’s parents with funeral expenses and giving them time and space to grieve their son.
As of this publication, $30,278 has been raised with a goal of $75,000.
