A 60-year-old Good Samaritan from Witset First Nation has been killed in a tragic crash that highlights the dangers of impaired driving on British Columbia highways. Cheyenne Stanley Nikal Jr., a respected member of the Ts'ayuu (Beaver) Clan, died on April 2 after stopping to help a couple whose truck had broken down on the side of the road north of Witset.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police say Nikal and his brother-in-law were assisting the stranded motorists when a black Chevrolet Tahoe struck their vehicle. Alcohol is suspected to be a contributing factor in the collision, though no charges have been laid at this time.
Nikal's brother-in-law suffered serious injuries in the crash, including broken ribs and injuries requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries. He is currently recovering in Vancouver.
A Life Defined by Compassion
Friends and family gathered across the region this week to honour Nikal's memory, reflecting on a man whose kindness defined his character. His wife of three decades, Donna Evans, described the moment her husband left their home for what would be the last time.
"He said, 'This elderly couple is having troubles with their vehicle, and Chris is going to meet me there.' He goes, 'I love you,' and then he left. And that was the last time I saw him."
Evans and Nikal would have celebrated 31 years of marriage this year. She described him as someone who "never went anywhere without" her, a man with a sharp sense of humour and an unwavering commitment to helping others in need.
Nikal worked as a contractor and was an accomplished hunter who regularly shared the fruits of his labour with community members. Beyond providing meat and groceries to residents, he took young people on hunting and fishing excursions, passing along skills and traditions to the next generation.
"He even took off his shoes and gave them to someone who needed it," Evans said, illustrating the depth of her husband's generosity. "He would want to be remembered as a gentle heart, a giver."
The Toll of Loss
The sudden loss has left Evans grappling with overwhelming emotions. "I'm in shock. I'm angry. My whole body is numb," she said. "It's just like I'm walking around like a zombie. He was my world."
The crash underscores the ongoing dangers posed by impaired driving on rural highways across Canada. Nikal's act of kindness—stopping to help strangers in distress—turned tragic when another driver's choices resulted in his death.
This article is based on reporting from CBC British Columbia. Read the original CBC News story here.