The Municipality of Brockton Stands in Grief with its Community

The Municipality of Brockton continues to mourn the tragic loss of four students and a teacher from Walkerton District Community School who passed away as a result of a motor vehicle accident on May 23, 2025.

With great sadness, we announce the passing of one of our own, Rowan McLeod, a valued Municipal employee, who died in the accident at just 17 years old. Rowan served the community over the past year as a Recreation Leader and Summer Camp Leader, bringing energy, compassion and dedication to children’s programming that supported many local families.

Rowan was returning from a school softball event alongside Kaydance Ford, Olivia Rourke, Danica Baker, and teacher Mathew Eckert, all of whom also lost their lives in this devastating accident.

Rowan’s contributions to the Municipality of Brockton will be remembered with deep gratitude. Her presence, commitment, and kindness touched the lives of many, and she will be profoundly missed by the children in her care, her colleagues and all who knew her.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of Rowan, Kaydance, Olivia, Danica, and Mathew. This loss is deeply felt not only within Brockton, but across our entire area.

We encourage all community members to come together in compassion and support as we navigate this profound tragedy.

In honour of Rowan McLeod and all the families affected, Municipal flags will remain at half-mast until Monday, June 2, 2025, following funeral services.

For those wishing to pay their respects, details on the services can be found at the following links:

• Rowan McLeod and Kaydance Ford – Rhody Family Funeral Home:
  View Rowan McLeod's Obituary
  View Kaydance Ford's Obituary
  
  
• Olivia Rourke and Danica Baker – Cameron’s Funeral Home:
  View Olivia Rourke's Obituary
  View Danica Baker's Obituary
  
  
• Mathew Eckert – Brian E. Wood Funeral Home Ltd.:
  View Mathew Eckert's Obituary

We respectfully urge the media to honor the privacy of the families as they navigate this profound and painful loss.