BC Coroners Service investigating death of 9-year-old boy, connection with wildfire smoke

Canada
Published 17.07.2023
BC Coroners Service investigating death of 9-year-old boy, connection with wildfire smoke

The BC Coroners Service is issuing a public security bulletin about wildfire smoke after the demise of a nine-year-old boy.

In a news launch, the service says it’s investigating the demise of Carter Vigh, whose passing was “related to an existing medical condition aggravated by wildfire smoke.”

In a publish on Facebook, Amber Vigh shared the news of Carter’s demise.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of our precious Carter Anthony Vigh,” the publish reads.

“Carter will always be remembered for his contagious smile and laugh and always ensuring everyone felt special, loved, and welcomed into this life. Carter loved to play soccer and was the biggest cheerleader for his favorite hockey team the Wranglers. His love for cars, trucks, and motorcycles along with his extraordinary dance moves will never be forgotten.”

Amber confirms that Carter confronted challenges with bronchial asthma, and the service notes that wildfire smoke could be particularly harmful for individuals with pre-existing circumstances.

“I know that you’re no longer dealing with asthma and can eat all the peanuts you want! I hope you play an epic soccer game in the sky baby, kick some ass,” Amber writes.

“I just hope we can raise awareness on the seriousness of asthma! We were so diligent with your asthma and watched so closely and you were so good about taking your puffer when you needed it. We want people to know how quickly things can change.”


BC Coroners Service investigating death of 9-year-old boy, connection with wildfire smoke
Amber Vigh introduced the demise of nine-year-old Carter on Facebook. (Courtesy Facebook/Amber Vigh)

In an unrelated press convention Monday, B.C. Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth mentioned Carter’s demise is a “tragedy.”

“This is obviously a terrible, terrible tragedy and every parent’s worst nightmare, and our thoughts go to the family at this very, very heartwrenching time,” he mentioned.

“I know the coroner…will be doing a coroner’s report and doing a full investigation, that’s their role, and we will want to wait to see what comes out for that. I think it’s important, also, that during fire season…and we’ve seen some unprecedented fires, particularly in northern British Columbia that have generated significant amounts of smoke, to follow the advice of public health officials when it comes to air quality. It is monitored on a daily basis, and I think people need to pay attention to that.”

Amber says a celebration of life will likely be held on Saturday on the 100 Mile House on the South Cariboo Recreation Centre, and attendants are requested to put on their favorite sports activities jerseys.

A GoFundMe has additionally been set as much as assist assist the household, and Amber notes donations could be made there in lieu of flowers.

The fundraiser has already surpassed its $20,000 purpose, as greater than $30,000 has already been raised.

The BC Coroners service says that in instances of smoky climate, it recommends staying indoors with the home windows closed, conserving home windows closed when driving, and lowering time spent exterior.

“As the province experiences greater impacts from the effects of climate change, British Columbians are learning more about the risks associated with wildfire smoke, extreme heat, and other environmental factors. This greater awareness can help us respond when risks are identified,” a news launch reads.

It provides that locals are inspired to make use of HEPA filtration and spend time in locations with managed air provides like buying malls or public libraries.


With information from Michael Williams 

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