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As the sixth anniversary of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash approaches, the plans for a permanent memorial at the site of the crash have been unveiled.
On April 6, 2018, the SJHL team’s bus collided with a semi at the intersection of Highway 35 and Highway 335 after the truck driver failed to stop at a stop sign. The crash killed 16 people and injured 13.
The driver, Jaskirat Singh Sidhu, was later sentenced to eight years in prison after pleading guilty to numerous charges.
This week, the Humboldt Broncos Memorials Committee unveiled its plans for a permanent memorial at the crash site near Tisdale.
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The plans include a memorial pond surrounded by an asphalt path and benches, with two separate memorial sites nearby and a 30-stall parking lot to accommodate visitors.
The committee said the first phase will involve site preparation and creating the pathways and sitting area, while the second phase will see the creation of a monument. More details on the second phase can be expected before the end of the year, the committee noted.
Committee member Carol Brons, whose daughter Dayna Brons was killed in the crash, said there were a lot of big hurdles to overcome when putting together the plan.
“Power lines needed to be relocated, deciding where to construct a new access road, and ensuring driver sight lines at the corner weren’t obstructed are just a few of the obstacles,” Brons said in a statement.
“I’m thrilled that we can get shovels in the ground soon and create something that will be meaningful not only for the families, but also the public.”
Kurt Leicht, whose son Jacob Leicht lost his life in the crash, said the committee wants to get the project started as soon as possible. He also put out a call for help with the construction.
“We would like to get started within the next month or so and we invite individuals and companies interested in contributing to this phase either through financial contribution or services to assist with the earth-moving, concrete and paving work to contact us,” Leicht said.
