A close-knit Bedford neighborhood has been devastated by the sudden and heartbreaking death of 3-year-old Maverick Brown.
On Friday evening, June 20, 2025, just around 7:50 p.m., the Halifax Regional Police responded to a distress call on Brownstone Way where Maverick had been struck by a passing large truck with a trailer while crossing the street to retrieve a soccer ball with his older brother and neighborhood friends (squamishchief.com).
Maverick was a bright, energetic boy who loved to play and explore. His aunt Felicia Newell, who established a GoFundMe campaign to support the family, described the area where the tragedy occurred as a familiar and “safe space” where children would often gather after school to play soccer or hockey.
Neighbors would linger, supervising around hockey nets, ensuring the children stayed safe — “Get it!” and “Woos!” echoing regularly in the driveway-centered play area (gofundme.com).
That evening, as his father Joel stepped inside to finish cleanup after supper and Maverick chased a ball moments before bedtime, fate intervened in a scene that was supposed to be cherished and ordinary (halifax.citynews.ca).
Witnesses on site braved the dreadful sight and attempted first aid before paramedics transported Maverick to a local hospital. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving the community in shock.
Authorities confirmed that neither speed nor alcohol played a role in the accident, and the Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing its investigation. Halifax Regional Police extended their “heartfelt condolences to the boy’s family” and expressed deep gratitude to those who witnessed the event and remained until emergency services arrived (halifax.citynews.ca).
In response to the tragedy, two GoFundMe campaigns were launched to relieve the burden of funeral and burial expenses, and to support the family during their time of mourning.
Felicia Newell’s fundraiser has already collected over CAD $29,000—a testament to the overwhelming community support (gofundme.com). In her statement, she asked for compassion and discouraged speculation online, reminding everyone that “blame and hurtful speculation do nothing to help and only deepen the pain” (gofundme.com).
Local outlets, including CJLS, Hot Country 103.5, and CityNews Halifax, highlighted the uniform response from the community. The sudden loss of a young child resonated profoundly, punctuating an evening that should have been filled with celebration and laughter, not heartbreak (cjls.com).
While the family’s grief remains immeasurable, the community has rallied around them. Neighbors have shared memories of Maverick’s curious nature and playful spirit, describing how his laughter would echo through the shared backyards.
Local volunteers have offered counseling, meals, and emotional support. For the Brown family, each act of kindness adds comfort amid overwhelming sorrow (gofundme.com).
Halifax Regional Police continue to reassess the circumstances of the accident. Their public statement clarifies that this was “a tragic incident and there was no criminal wrongdoing by the driver,” and stresses that no charges are pending (cjls.com).
As the neighborhood grieves and the Brown family begins their path to healing, the outpouring of support offers a glimmer of solace. The community’s vow to keep Maverick’s memory alive—by continuing to support his parents, understanding their pain, and guarding against careless rumors—honors the joy he brought to everyone around him.
How You Can Help
Donations to the In Loving Memory of Maverick Brown GoFundMe are directed to funeral expenses and family care. As of now, it’s raised CAD $29,150 toward a $25,000 target (gofundme.com).
Share the fundraiser with your networks to ease the family’s financial burden.
Respect the family’s request for privacy and avoid speculation—focus instead on support and remembrance.
May the memory of Maverick Brown, full of life, curiosity, and love, motivate us to embrace our communities in kindness and compassion—forever honoring the spark he left behind.
