Community Mourns over 3 Teens Killed in Crash; families Remembered their bright spirits

HANOVER, ONTARIO: The three teenagers who died in a tragic single-vehicle crash near Hanover on Nov. 11 are being remembered by their families, friends and teachers as joyful, selfless young people who left a lasting impact on everyone who knew them. A fourth teen remains hospitalized in London with serious injuries, police confirmed.

According to a parent who spoke with CBC News, all four students attended John Diefenbaker Senior School (JDSS) in Hanover and had gone for a drive during lunchtime shortly after participating in a Remembrance Day ceremony. Emergency responders were called around noon to Concession Road 2, near Allan Park Road, where the vehicle had crashed.

The tragedy comes just six months after another devastating collision in Ontario that claimed the lives of four students and their teacher from nearby Walkerton, deepening the grief felt across the region.

Among those killed was Damon, who was born in Hanover and described by his family as a spirited first-born child who was immediately adored. Though strong-willed and loud, “beneath that tough exterior was a little boy with a huge heart,” his obituary reads. Damon cherished being an older brother and loved spending time roughhousing with his cousins.

His family said he was equally at home in town or on his grandparents’ farm, where he learned the importance of hard work. Guided by generations of skilled men in his family, Damon became adept at fixing everything from tractors to lawnmowers. He also enjoyed gaming with friends and chatting online, and had been working toward a specialist high-skills major in automotive service technology.

Davis, another victim of the crash, was known for his dedication to helping seniors. He volunteered regularly at the Hanover Care Centre, where staff and residents admired his compassion. His family has planned a public funeral service in Hanover on Tuesday and has requested donations to London Children’s Hospital in his memory.

The third teen, Haley Keffer, is being remembered for her vibrant personality and unique sense of style — especially her love of wearing mismatched socks. In a heartfelt tribute, her family has asked that attendees at her celebration of life in early December honour her by wearing mismatched socks as well. Haley leaves behind her beloved dog, Bella, and her older brother.

“We will forever remember Haley’s bright spirit, her laughter, and the joy she brought while spending time with her friends and family,” a mourner wrote in an online memorial.

As the investigation continues, the community is gathering around the grieving families, united in shock and sorrow over the loss of three young lives taken far too soon.