After Witnessing a Fatal Crash, a Kippens Man Calls for Help for Bystanders
If you come across a fatal scene, who is there to help you?
A tragic collision near Pinchgut Lake has sparked an important conversation—not just about emergency response, but also about the lasting emotional impact on bystanders who step in to help.
According to an original report by CBC News, a 72-year-old woman was killed and her husband was severely injured in a head-on collision on the Trans-Canada Highway, about one kilometre west of Pinchgut Lake, on the evening of Dec. 11. You can read the full original article from CBC here:
👉 After witnessing fatal crash, Kippens man calls for help for bystanders
Strangers Step In During Critical Moments
Several motorists unexpectedly came upon the crash scene and immediately took action.One bystander used a jacket to keep the injured man warm while shielding him from the sight of his deceased wife seated beside him. Another called 911.
Together, they stayed with the couple until police arrived, then quietly went their separate ways.
Vincent McGrath of Kippens believes he was the second person on scene. Speaking on The St. John’s Morning Show, he described trying to keep the injured man comfortable and alert while waiting for help to arrive.
“We noticed there was a lady who was deceased and a man who was severely injured,” McGrath said. “We tried what we could to keep him comfortable and conscious.”
The Hidden Impact on Bystanders
While attention is often focused on the victims, McGrath says the psychological effects on bystanders are rarely addressed. Trauma can surface later through nightmares, intrusive thoughts, or persistent self-doubt.
McGrath, a former peacekeeper diagnosed with PTSD, said the incident affected him deeply despite his previous experience with traumatic events.
Concerned by the lack of follow-up support, he contacted the Corner Brook RCMP to ask what resources were offered to those who stayed and helped at the scene. RCMP later confirmed there is no formal process in place to guide bystanders toward psychological support.
Why First Aid Training Matters
Registered psychologist Janine Hubbard explains that symptoms such as flashbacks, irritability, and negative thoughts are common after witnessing trauma. If these symptoms persist longer than a month, they may indicate PTSD.
First aid trainer Jeff Lavigne emphasizes that bystanders play a critical role during emergencies. Emergency responders rely on eyewitnesses to provide accurate details about what happened before help arrived, which directly impacts patient care.
Lavigne recommends calling 911 Immediately checking for life threatening injuries, and providing first aid when safe to do so. He also encourages drivers to take a comprehensive first aid course and keep basic emergency supplies—such as a blanket or medical kit—in their vehicle.
For those looking to be better prepared to help in situations like this, Standard First Aid and CPR training provides essential skills for managing trauma and medical emergencies until professional help arrives.
A Call for Awareness and Preparedness
This heartbreaking incident highlights the importance of both emergency preparedness and emotional support for bystanders. While quick action can save lives, recognizing and addressing the psychological impact afterward is equally important.
About The Author
Mark Kascha
Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.
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Last reviewed: March 2026
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