Family of 80-year-old community volunteer killed in B.C. hit and run seeks justice

The tranquil community of Chilliwack is grappling with profound grief following a devastating hit and run incident that claimed the life of a beloved 80-year-old local volunteer. Kitty Dunham, a woman known for her indomitable spirit and dedication to restorative justice, was tragically struck while cycling near Portage Park on the evening of September 19. Her untimely death has ignited a desperate plea for justice from a family left shattered by the senseless nature of the crime.

Seeking Justice for a Hit and Run Victim

Kitty Dunham was far more than an elderly resident; she was a beacon of resilience in her community. Her sister, Marie Guitard Belanger, shared heart-wrenching memories of a woman who stood barely five feet tall but possessed an enormous heart. Despite enduring a previous broken back, Dunham remained an avid cyclist, consistently following traffic safety rules. “It was more important to give than to take,” recalled her other sister, Nancy Guitar, noting that Dunham had dedicated her later years to volunteerism after suffering personal losses, including the deaths of her husband and two daughters.

Witness accounts describe the harrowing moments leading up to the collision. Local resident Kevin Date, who was nearby during the incident, described hearing a sickening crash. He observed an Amazon delivery van on Portage Avenue and a truck speeding around it, striking the elderly cyclist. Most distressing, however, was the driver’s decision to flee the scene. While bystanders valiantly attempted to provide aid, the victim could not be revived. The community’s sorrow mirrors that seen in other tragic losses, such as the impact of unexpected fatalities, which often leave a lasting scar on local morale.

The investigation into this hit and run remains active. RCMP officials have seized a suspect vehicle, and a man was briefly arrested before being released pending further inquiries. Authorities have explicitly stated they do not believe substance impairment was a factor, which only deepens the family’s confusion and pain. For more context on how road safety and criminal investigations are being reported, you can look at further reading on transport safety.

The family remains adamant that the primary offense was the abandonment of a human being in critical need. “The accident was hitting Kitty, the crime was leaving her there and taking off,” Guitar stated. This sentiment of betrayal has galvanized the community, leading to the organization of a candlelight vigil at Portage Park. As the investigation progresses, the RCMP is actively calling on the public to submit any available CCTV or dashcam footage, particularly focusing on a burgundy or red 2021 Chevrolet Silverado seen in the vicinity during the incident.

In the wake of this hit and run, the legacy of Kitty Dunham continues to inspire, even as her family fights for accountability. While no legal resolution can replace the loss of a life defined by such kindness, her loved ones hope that justice will bring some semblance of peace to those mourning her in Chilliwack.