A new memorial bench has been installed at Mayfair Community School in honour of Baeleigh Maurice. Maurice was nine-years-old when she was hit and killed at a crosswalk on 33rd Street West nearly five years ago on Sept. 9, 2021. Taylor Kennedy was charged with impaired driving causing death. The charge was stayed after a judge ruled the case took too long to get to trial. The Saskatchewan Court of Appeal dismissed the Crown’s appeal in April, leaving the stay in place. Rhane Mahingen, Maurice’s aunt, said the bench keeps her niece’s memory alive at the playground she once loved. “When family is missing her, they can come here and sit and pray, and watch their little ones as they make new memories at this park,” Mahingen told CTV News. The bench bears Maurice’s name and her nickname, “Buga.” It’s painted blue — Maurice’s favourite colour. Pasqua First Nation helped bring the family’s vision to life. Pro Metal Industries, a company owned by the First Nation, crafted and donated the bench. “It’s important for us to support the citizens of Pasqua First Nation as best we can,” Pasqua First Nation Chief Fabian Ironeagle said. With the school year just around the corner, Maurice’s family is reminding drivers to be cautious and watch for pedestrians. “Any child should be able to walk to school in this city safely,” Mahingen said.
