Edmonton boy, 3, killed after pickup truck hits family crossing identified in fundraiser

The three year old boy who died after he and his family were hit by a pickup truck in southwest Edmonton has been identified in an online fundraiser shared by the mayor.

The boy was identified as Heyan Radadiya. His seven-year-old sister Aara and 39-year-old mother Jalpa, who were in the hospital, were also identified in the GoFundMe set up by a family friend and neighbor.

“The family’s pain is indescribable,” wrote neighbor Rakesh Dholakiya. “They never thought they would have to say goodbye to their precious boy so soon. Home feels empty without his laughter and hugs.”

The family was crossing the street at a marked crosswalk in Edmonton’s Allard neighborhood Thursday evening when they were struck by a Ford F-150 pickup truck that was turning left after “quickly stopping” at a three-lane intersection, police said . The boy died on the spot.

Police say the 30-year-old man behind the wheel of the F-150 remained at the scene. Investigators do not believe speed or alcohol caused the collision.

Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi shared a link to the fundraiser on his social media pages Saturday morning.

“I was heartbroken to hear this week about the tragic loss of this young Edmontonian,” Sohi wrote. “My thoughts are with his family and their entire community.

“If you can, please donate to support Heyan’s family during this unthinkable time.”

The fundraiser had already raised more than $36,000 of the $100,000 goal as of Saturday afternoon, from nearly 500 donations.

“Your generous contribution will make a meaningful difference during this heartbreaking journey,” the GoFundMe said. “Legal fees, funeral costs and recovery will require some financial support. Please consider donating and sharing this campaign to honor Heyan’s memory and support their family during this incredibly difficult time.”