10-year-old killed in Manchester crash, buried

MANCHESTER, Jamaica – Tributes and tears flowed at the funeral service for 10-year-old Treavon Saunchez, who was buried Saturday at Mizpah Moravian Church in northeast Manchester. Treavon tragically died on September 2 in a two-vehicle accident that also injured his mother.

The accident occurred on the first day of the new school year when Treavon’s mother, a police officer, was taking him to school. Treavon, a student at Christiana Leased Primary and Infant School, was on her way to Year 6 when tragedy struck.

Read: Back to school tragedy

During the service, his aunt, Rosemarie Saunchez-Barosy, gave the eulogy and described Treavon as a “spark of joy.”

“He excelled in his classes. Treavon radiated a light, a curiosity and a kindness beyond his years. He touched each of us with His gentle heart; it feels impossible to capture his life in just a few words,” she said.

“Every moment he gave us is deeply etched in our hearts. Treavon was always curious and always tried to understand the world around him. He asked questions that made you pause, think and often laugh,” she added.

Deputy Chief Inspector Elsa Smith paid tribute on behalf of Manchester Police, describing the emotional toll Treavon’s death has had on the force.

“It is indeed a difficult task for us. On September 2, the entire JCF family was thrown into a valley when we learned of the traumatic experience of Constable Crawford and her world, Treavon. Some of us were angry, some sad, some confused. At Spalding Hospital, some were crying, some were cursing, some were shocked and some even doubted God,” Smith said.

The grieving family of 10-year-old Treavon Saunchez sat before the casket containing his remains at Mizpah Moravian Church in Manchester on Saturday.

She assured Treavon’s mother of the continued support of police.
“We continue this journey with you. It hasn’t been easy. We stayed the course and at this point we will never leave you alone. We will continue to give you our continued support,” said Smith.

Chadwick Young, 31, a music producer and coolant manufacturer from Main Street, Christiana, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving in connection with the crash, which occurred on Sedburgh’s main road near Christiana.

Police said Young has also been charged with leaving the scene of an accident and disregarding the solid white line.

Read: Range Rover driver linked to fatal crash in Manchester

The case remains in court and Smith noted that investigators are working to ensure a strong case.

“I know from the traffic department that they have advanced their investigation and are doing their job,” she said.

Several politicians, teachers and students from Christiana Leased Primary attended the funeral service. Treavon’s body was buried in Walderston, Manchester.

–Kasey Williams