A memorial has been erected in honour of the tragic passing of Jorin Clay Dann-Mills last week. Toys, gifts, flowers and prayers have been ongoing, since the tragedy occurred and as the mourning community of Hope, offers their respects to the boy and his family.
The community was shocked when Mills, aged 8, was hit by a commercial truck on 6th Avenue early last Wednesday afternoon.
BC ambulance promptly arrived on scene accompanied by General Duty officers, where Mills was found to be suffering from a series of life threatening injuries.
Mills was expediently transported to Fraser Canyon Hospital where he succumbed to trauma.
“No family should have to deal with something like this — I can only imagine the type of hell they are going through right now,” Staff Sergeant Karol Rehdner told The Hope Standard on scene. “We are still investigating and have no further information at this time.”
According to police reports the driver is working with authorities during the ongoing investigation.
A candlelight vigil late Wednesday evening was the result of an outpouring of community support to honour Mills and his parents Sharon Dann and Dan Mills — over one hundred people attended the rally, demonstrating the spirit of Hope in a crisis such as this one.
Shasta Beeckman a family member, who arranged the rally outside of Mills’ home, started a GoFundMe page, where people are currently being directed to raise funds for Mills’ parents.
“It’s devastating for the family and the community — no one should have to lose a child,” said Mayor Wilfried Vicktor. “Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.”
Mills will be missed by all who knew him and is survived by three siblings who include older sister Kayla, brother Brayden and his little sister Rosie. The family has requested that instead of flowers, a donation be made to Vancouver Children’s Hospital on behalf of Mills.
A celebration of life is scheduled to take place for Mills at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 17 at the Hope Golf Club.
