The mother of a 10-year-old boy who died in a tragic crash with an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) cruiser is sharing more details about the heartbreaking incident.
In a GoFundMe post, Chasity Tharp explained that her husband, Matthew Bigras, was driving home with their son Michael and another passenger when they encountered a large patch of black ice on Highway 7 around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday. Despite Matthew’s efforts to regain control, the truck slid into the oncoming lane, where it collided with the OPP cruiser between Drummond School Road and Drummond Concession 7, east of Perth.
Tharp said Michael was ejected from the vehicle and died instantly upon impact. However, paramedics managed to revive him after 20 minutes of intense efforts. Unfortunately, the severity of his injuries was too much for him to survive. Michael was kept on life support to allow family and loved ones time to say goodbye. Despite hopes for a miracle, Tharp shared that Michael was declared brain dead on Sunday. His 11th birthday would have been on December 19.
Tharp’s post also mentioned Matthew’s injuries, including a broken leg, crushed pelvis, and punctured spleen. He is in stable condition but faces surgery on his pelvis. Matthew’s recovery is expected to keep him from working for an extended period, and the funds raised will help cover funeral expenses, bills, and other financial needs while the family navigates this devastating time.
Tharp expressed gratitude for the support, thanking both donors and those sharing the fundraiser. She noted that the family is also hoping Matthew can be transferred to CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario) to be with Michael in his final moments.