In a heartfelt move following a tragic school bus accident, Pierre Boutin reaches out to provide support to grieving families. This comes after the recent loss of a 13-year-old girl in Laval, who was struck by her school bus as she exited. The incident mirrors Boutin’s own loss six years ago when his son, Jules, was also killed in a similar accident.
Tragedy Strikes Again
The Laval accident occurred on November 20, 2023. The young girl, who was only 13, tragically died right in front of her classmates. This incident resonates deeply with Pierre Boutin, whose son was killed on September 12, 2019, near Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts.
A Fathers’ Pain and Reflection
“When I saw the news, I froze. It’s almost the same situation,” Boutin recalls. He remembers waiting in his car for Jules after school. They had plans to go mountain biking, but Jules never came out. An investigation later revealed that the crosswalk paint was worn out, and the bus driver did not stop, even after hitting something.
Boutin spent a long time struggling to cope with his son’s death. The tragedy led to a painful grieving process that included a year off work, moving, and eventually separating from his partner. “It felt like my world ended. I had a loving family, and then, everything changed,” he reflects.
Finding Purpose in Grief
Over time, Boutin found a new purpose. He decided to help others dealing with similar losses. For the past three years, he has dedicated every Monday to provide individual support to bereaved individuals and leads group sessions for Palliaco, an organization that assists people through grief.
- Boutin regularly supports individuals nearing the end of life.
- He emphasizes that grief never completely vanishes; it transforms.
- He frequently talks to Jules, imagining what he would be like at 19.
A Call for Change
Pierre Boutin passionately advocates for better safety measures in school transport. In 2023, there were 320 recorded collisions involving school buses in Quebec when children were boarding or disembarking.
Boutin criticizes the lack of accountability for drivers and a general desensitization towards pedestrian safety. “When a pedestrian dies, it seems as if it’s treated with the same indifference as an animal,” he argues.
Offering Support to Other Families
Despite his ongoing grief, Boutin has found solace in sharing his experience. He extends his support to the family affected by the recent tragedy in Laval. “It’s the end of your world losing a child. While they may not want to hear it now, they will eventually find meaning in life again,” he hopes.
As Pierre Boutin continues his journey of healing and support, he sends a message to other grieving families: “I hope they find the help they need. You can rediscover joy in life, even after such a loss.”
