Funeral Arrangements Begin for Three Siblings Killed in Alleged Drunk Driving Crash
Ontario family prepares for funeral of three siblings lost in suspected drunk driving crash, amid ongoing legal proceedings and community mourning.
Funeral preparations are moving forward for three siblings whose lives ended in tragedy following a collision that authorities allege was caused by a suspected drunk driver. The quiet grief enveloping the family has been palpable, as they withhold detailed comments due to ongoing legal proceedings. However, they did issue a heartfelt statement on Friday acknowledging the overwhelming support they've received and the profound pain of their loss.
“Although we remain utterly devastated, we are now in the process of planning the funeral for our three dear children, which is something no parent should ever have to endure,” the family's statement read. “For now, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all of the first responders and hospital staff who tended to us, as well as the members of our community and others who have been extremely supportive.”
In a development that brought the story into sharper public focus, an Ontario court lifted a publication ban that had previously prevented the release of the children’s identities. The siblings—15-year-old Ramone Lavina, his 13-year-old brother Jace, and their 6-year-old sister Mya—were traveling with their family on the May long weekend when tragedy struck. Police allege that a driver, suspected to be impaired, exited Highway 401 at Renforth Drive in Etobicoke and collided with the family's minivan, leading to the fatal crash.
The devastating incident left three surviving family members, including the children’s mother, Jade Galve, and her 10-year-old son. As the family braces for an unfathomable farewell, preparations are underway for a joint funeral service to take place on Saturday, June 14th in Scarborough. Community members are expected to gather in large numbers to offer comfort and remember the lives lost too soon.
The man accused in the case, 19-year-old Ethan Lehouillier, remains in police custody facing several serious charges, including impaired driving causing death. His next court appearance is set for June 17th, as the legal process continues amidst a backdrop of grief and growing calls for action against impaired driving.
As the family navigates this period of unimaginable loss, they continue to express appreciation for the outpouring of support from first responders, medical staff, and the wider community during their darkest hours. The children’s memories are being honored and mourned by all those touched by this heartbreaking event.
