Merritt councillor struck, killed by vehicle outside Valemount, council says
Posted July 5, 2023 12:44 pm.
Last Updated July 5, 2023 12:45 pm.
A City of Merritt councillor has died after being struck and killed by a vehicle outside of Valemount Tuesday.
In a statement, the city says Coun. Claire Newman “unexpectedly passed away” while travelling when the incident occurred.
“To lose a light like Claire Newman in such a tragic way has left a giant hole in my heart and the heart of everyone who came into contact with her,” Mayor Michael Goetz said.
“Claire was the cheerleader of this Council and a driving force that you rarely come across. Getting to know Claire over the past six months has been a great pleasure and I am a better person for having known her. To her family and friends, I offer my deepest sympathies. Claire you will be missed.”
The city says its flags will be lowered to half-mast in mourning of Newman’s death.
“I have loved working with Claire,” Merritt CAO Sean Smith said. “She was vibrant, curious, and had a passion for people that was contagious. Saying goodbye to friends is hard. I will miss her. And on behalf of all City staff, our sincere condolences go out to her family.”
City council has cancelled its regular meeting for July 11.
