Cora Fraser was not present at the commencement of harness racing in Woodstock, N.B., where her three-year-old son met with a fatal accident. However, she managed to reach him in time to cradle him as he passed away. The absence of conclusive reports on the incident has compounded her sorrow, along with the reticence of the race organizers.
Fraser, aged 24, emphasized that motherhood was the focal point of her existence. She had four daughters and her son, “baby Gunnar,” whom she depicted as an affectionate and devoted child who poured his heart into everything he did.
On the day of the tragedy, while other family members took the children to the races, Fraser had planned a child-free day with friends at the quarry. She recounted waiting for her ride to go swimming since she did not drive.
The sequence of events following the incident remains unclear, as the authorities, including the coroner’s office, have not provided Fraser with the autopsy report. The coroner’s office mentioned that it is premature to decide on an inquest and that the case will be referred to New Brunswick’s Child Death Review Committee for assessment once all investigations are completed.
Fraser continues to watch the video footage repeatedly, as races in the Maritimes are broadcast live and available online. The footage captured spectators by the track, including where Gunnar was positioned at the beginning of the second race, out of sight but near the starting truck with its gates extended.
Despite her efforts to reach the scene upon learning of the incident, Fraser arrived too late to see Gunnar, who had already been transported to the hospital. The family’s distress was evident, with her oldest daughter in a state of anguish.
Woodstock’s deputy police chief assured that the family would be notified when the Crown prosecutor’s office concludes its review, emphasizing the need for thoroughness rather than immediate assumptions of negligence or criminal intent.
Fraser’s quest for transparency and accountability led her to seek the safety review results, recommendations, and preventive measures to avoid similar tragedies. The aftermath of the incident prompted discussions on safety measures at the racetrack, with the reinforcement of fencing and caution signs to deter spectators from leaning over the barriers.
As the community mourns the loss of Gunnar, Fraser’s determination to seek justice and prevent future accidents remains steadfast, echoing her belief that stringent safety standards are imperative to safeguard all attendees, especially vulnerable individuals like her young son.
