Tragedy Strikes: Beloved 11-Year-Old Girl Dies in Horror Crash That Leaves Mum Fighting for Life
- Gracie Gill, 11, killed when her mum’s car plunges into a dam in northern NSW
- Devastated community rallies around grief-stricken mum, Raelen Gill, with outpouring of support and funds
- Tributes flow for “caring, unique, kind and bubbly” Gracie, an avid martial arts enthusiast
A heartbroken community has come together to support a grieving mother, Raelen Gill, after her 11-year-old daughter, Gracie, tragically died in a car crash that left her fighting for life.
The brutal accident occurred on September 11, when Raelen’s black SUV crashed into a tree before becoming submerged in a dam off the Bruxner Highway near Tenterfield in NSW’s New England area. Both mother and daughter were pulled from the water, but despite paramedics’ best efforts, Gracie died at the scene.
Raelen, a chiropractor, was taken to Tenterfield Hospital, where she is still recovering. Her friend, Rebecca McGoldrick, has set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and ease the financial burden on the grieving mother. Within 24 hours, the fund had already received almost $10,000 of its $13,000 goal.
“As a community of friends, family, and supporters, we want to ease some of the financial burden during this devastating time by helping cover funeral and other expenses,” McGoldrick said. “I know that no words or donations can ever take away the pain of losing a child, but together we can show her that she is surrounded by love and support.”
Gracie, an avid member of the martial arts community, was described by her former school, Takeshi Karate, as “caring, unique, kind and bubbly”. The school shared their heartbreak at the news of her death, saying, “We will always remember Gracie’s bright smile and infectious energy.”
On Raelen’s company’s Facebook page, Chiropractic Life Tamworth, comments poured in, with one user writing, “Thinking of you all and sending so much love.” Another added, “My heart is aching.”
Gracie would occasionally appear in videos with her mother on the page, showcasing their loving bond. The community’s outpouring of support is a testament to the impact Gracie had on those around her.
As the family and community come to terms with this devastating loss, they will undoubtedly hold dear the memory of this vibrant and loving young girl.