Among those reported to have died in the incident was Darren Charters, whose passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from friends and members of the wider community. Dan Gillespie was also identified in community tributes as the other man who died in the collision. Their deaths have left families, friends, and acquaintances mourning a sudden and devastating loss.
Darren Charters’ Cause of Death
According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), two men from Harvey, aged 52 and 43, died at the scene following a collision involving a UTV and another vehicle.
Police responded to the incident at approximately 2:44 p.m. on October 24. Preliminary findings indicated that a vehicle travelling south on Tweedside Road crossed into the opposing lane and collided with the side-by-side carrying the two men.
Both occupants of the UTV sustained fatal injuries. The driver of the other vehicle, a 28-year-old man from Fredericton, was transported to hospital with injuries believed to be non-life-threatening.
Authorities arranged for autopsies and launched an investigation to establish the full circumstances of the collision. Although community reports have identified the deceased as Darren Charters and Dan Gillespie, the initial RCMP announcement did not publicly name either victim.
Remembering Darren Charters
Tributes shared following the tragedy have offered glimpses into Darren’s personality and the relationships he built throughout his life.
In a tribute shared by Maddy Tingley, Darren was remembered as a friend of her father who had worked alongside him at different workplaces. Their friendship also extended to softball, where they played together and carpooled to games.
Tingley recalled Darren’s sense of humour and his ability to make people laugh. She also remembered him as the father of two daughters whom she described affectionately, reflecting the personal connections that made his loss especially painful.
Her recollections highlighted the importance of ordinary moments, shared activities, and friendships that remain meaningful long after someone has passed away.
Dan Gillespie Also Remembered
Dan Gillespie was also mourned in the same tribute. Tingley recalled an occasion when he offered to remain with her after she experienced a distressing incident while working with the public.
Although their interactions had generally been brief, his willingness to stop and offer support left a lasting impression. Her account portrayed him as a considerate person who was prepared to help someone experiencing a difficult moment.
The loss of both men has resonated with people connected through friendships, work, trucking, racing, and local community activities.
Police Investigation Continues
The RCMP’s investigation into the fatal collision remains ongoing. Investigators are working to establish the complete sequence of events that led to the crash.
Tweedside Road was closed for several hours while emergency responders and collision investigators examined the scene. The roadway has since reopened.
Authorities have not released further details establishing all the circumstances surrounding the collision.
A Community United in Grief
The deaths of Darren Charters and Dan Gillespie have brought sadness to Harvey and neighbouring communities. As friends share memories and offer condolences, their lives are being remembered through the relationships they maintained and the kindness and humour recalled by those who knew them.
Their passing is a painful reminder of how suddenly lives can be lost. For their families and friends, the days ahead will be a time of mourning, reflection, and holding close the memories they shared.