TWO WOMEN DIED HELPING A TURTLE
Hello from Kelly at Think Turtle Conservation Initiative
It is with a heavy heart we share the news that Teresa Suliga and Elizabeth Seremak were struck by a vehicle on Saturday May 18th around 7:10 pm in Chatam-Kent when they stopped to help a turtle on the road.
We are deeply saddened by this news and our hearts ache for the families of Teresa and Elizabeth. They were not just members of our community, but part of our extended family, a community that passionately cares for turtles and other wildlife and aids them when it is safe to do so. We stand with you in this time of profound sorrow, sending our deepest condolences and unwavering support to help you through this unimaginably difficult period.
Like all of us, we grapple with a profound sense of loss and a desperate need for answers to comprehend this tragedy.
It is hard to surmise exactly what occurred until more facts are known. From information shared through CBC Windsor Canada and other news sources, reports thus far state that the two ladies had pulled off the road onto the shoulder and had their hazard lights on. They were struck by a vehicle traveling north on Charing Cross Road near Horton Line that failed to notice them, leading to this tragic incident.
This occurred on an open stretch of road in the light of day.
The Google Maps photo with this post shows the stretch of road had zero visibility obstructions where this occurred, prompts many questions. Reading that Teresa and Elizabeth routinely helped wildlife during their travels, we want to emphasize that they were experienced and cautious animal rescuers. They wouldn’t have ventured onto the road to help the turtle unless they believed it was safe to do so.
How could a vehicle operator driving along this road not see two women and a vehicle pulled off with its hazard lights on unless distracted, speeding, or under the influence? If there is a medical condition that played a role in the drivers actions there has been on mention of this. These are the questions that the ongoing investigation is seeking to answer. We are committed to finding out what transpired and ensuring that such a tragedy doesn’t happen again.
As we reflect on this heart-wrenching incident, we must stress the utmost importance of ‘SAFETY’, particularly during turtle season. It is not just a suggestion, but a responsibility to never put yourself or other motorists at risk. If you decide to assist a turtle, remember to pull off the road onto the shoulder as far over as possible and activate your hazard lights. Avoid stopping in heavy traffic areas, on high-speed roadways, or in blind spots. The simple act of pulling over and turning on your hazard lights can often be enough to alert other motorists to slow down. For maximum visibility we recommend keeping a safety vest in your vehicle. Let’s make safety our top priority.
Our hearts are heavy with grief as we bid farewell to Teresa and Elizabeth. Their selflessness and love for wildlife have left an indelible mark on our organization and the community. Their memory will forever be in our hearts, and their acts of kindness will continue to inspire us. To their family, we extend our deepest condolences. We are thinking of you and sending caring thoughts to support you through this difficult time.
Respectfully,
Kelly Wallace
Think Turtle Conservation Initiative
Cell/Text: 647-606-9537
E-mail: thinkturtle@yahoo.com
Facebook: thinkturtleci
Username: Wallace Kathleen Kelly
Facebook Post: #1226
THINK TURTLE CONSERVATION INITIATIVE 