A woman who was struck by a van in Esquimalt on Thursday has died from her injuries, the Songhees Nation has confirmed.
The crash happened around 10:30 a.m. at Admirals Road and Maple Bank Road when a white GMC Savana van struck a pedestrian. The intersection was closed for several hours as West Shore RCMP’s traffic reconstructionist investigated.
Initially, police reported that the victim had suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital. On Friday, the Songhees Nation confirmed the woman as Bernice Sam, a staff member with the Songhees Education Department who was deeply involved in supporting children, youth, and families.
Related: Serious crash shuts down section of Admirals Road in Esquimalt
“It is with heavy hearts that the Songhees Nation shares the sudden and tragic passing of Bernice Sam,” the Nation wrote in a statement. “Bernice was a dedicated and vibrant presence within our Nation — a cherished family member, a respected friend, and staff member of the Nation. Her unwavering commitment to the well-being of our youth touched the lives of many far beyond our community.”
Sam worked in multiple roles in the Education Department, where colleagues say her wisdom, warmth, and advocacy for students left a lasting impact.
“Her passion for supporting Songhees children and youth in their education was one of the many strengths that she contributed to our team,” the Education Department shared. “Her kindness, generosity, and genuine heart made it easy to love her and we feel grateful to have had her as a colleague and a friend.”
Community members are being asked to keep her family in their thoughts as they grieve.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help support Sam’s family during this time.
“We would like to raise funds to help a single mother and her kiddos. Mom was in a serious accident, leaving the kiddos blind in what the possible outcome would be. Unfortunately, mom has passed; leaving the kiddos to move forward in a life without the one person who loved them the most. Anything helps. Thank you,” said Tammy-Rose Sam who started the GoFundMe campaign.
As of Friday afternoon, the campaign had raised more than $1,700 toward its $3,500 goal. Donations can also be sent directly via e-transfer to tammysam30@gmail.com.
West Shore RCMP are still investigating the crash and are asking anyone with dashcam footage from the area between 10:15 a.m. and 10:40 a.m. Thursday to call them at 250-474-2264.
