Community raises more than $300K for families in devastating Mapleton Township crash

A community is in mourning following the deaths of five children killed in a crash. CTV’s Krista Simpson and Jeff Pickel report.

People injured in a devastating crash in Mapleton Township continue their recovery journey while the community mourns the tragic loss of five children.

Anna Thiessen is the daughter of Peter and Elisabeth Bartsch, who were in the van that collided with an SUV at the intersection of 4th Line and Wellington Road 12 on Friday night. Five children from the Doerksen family died and several others were injured.

Police initially told CTV News the children’s grandmother had been in the vehicle, but Thiessen said her parents were not related to the Doerksens and they had all been invited to an evening of fellowship at the home of a fellow church member.

She also confirmed both families were from the Atwood area, despite an assertion from Ontario Provincial Police Chief Superintendent Dwight Thib who stated they were from the Elmira area.

Thiessen said her family is extremely grateful to the first responders, medical teams and everyone else who has offered support, prayers and help during a difficult time.

“My father is recovering well physically. My mother remains at Hamilton General Hospital and is continuing her recovery. While her condition has seen both improvements and setbacks, we are encouraged by the overall progress she has made,” Thiessen said in an email to CTV News.

Community comes together for families

An online fundraiser was launched to help ease any financial burden while Peter and Elizabeth focused on healing from the physical and emotional wounds of the tragic incident. As of Wednesday afternoon, $29,000 of the $40,000 goal had been raised. Thiessen also confirmed the fundraiser was legitimate.

Another fundraiser was also launched for the Doerksen family. As of Wednesday afternoon, $318,760 had been raised for the family who are struggling with the loss of five children, ranging in age from 4 to 12, while the mother, father and youngest brother are being treated for their own injuries. Although a representative for that fundraiser could not be reached, GoFundMe has offered donation protection to anyone who wants to ensure their money will go directly to the family.

“Our hearts are broken for the Doerksen family. They are facing a loss that no parent should ever have to endure, and our thoughts and prayers remain with them,” Thiessen wrote.