HAMBURG, N.Y. — The community of Hamburg is mourning the tragic loss of 26-year-old Casey Nolder, who tragically lost her life at the intersection of South Park Avenue and Scranton Road on a fateful Sunday night. Family and friends are gathering to remember her as a radiant and kind soul. A Celebration of Life for Casey will be held on August 25, 2023, from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at John J. Kaczor Funeral Home, Inc, located at 3450 South Park Ave, Blasdell, NY.
Casey’s mother, Barbara Reese, shared memories of her daughter, who had just completed her final shift at the Erie County Fair on that ill-fated evening. Casey often rode her electric scooter to a friend’s house after work, a routine she had followed many times before.
Casey Nolder and her mother Barbara Reese
Recalling the devastating moment, Barbara Reese said, “Even when I got there and I knew, I still didn’t believe it. I just laid there and held her in my arms until her body went cold.”
According to Reese, Casey was knocked off her electric scooter at the South Park Avenue and Scranton Road intersection. As Casey failed to arrive on time, her mother checked her GPS and discovered that she was still at the intersection.
Tragedy struck around 10:20 p.m. when another vehicle traveling south ran over Casey, leading to the heart-wrenching loss of a young life.
A memorial has been created at the intersection, with flowers adorning the street signs, serving as a tribute to Casey’s memory.
Megan Jardine, a former classmate of Casey’s, struggled to find words to express the loss. “It’s hard to put into words; she was only 26. She was so young.”
In the face of this tragedy, Megan Jardine added, “I just wish everybody would slow down and watch. Because this all could have been prevented if people were paying attention.”
Casey Nolder had spent years working at the Wendy’s restaurant on Camp Road in Hamburg. Her mother remembered her as a compassionate individual who had the incredible ability to brighten any room she entered.
Barbara Reese expressed her gratitude for the support of witnesses who were present during the accident and shared their love. She especially mentioned a woman who comforted her daughter in her final moments.
Amid the grief, Reese shared that Casey’s organs would be donated, a testament to her daughter’s lifelong inclination to help others.
Town of Hamburg Police confirmed that no charges have been filed, and the incident remains under investigation. The tragedy has sparked conversations among neighbors about the need for improved safety measures at the intersection, potentially including a traffic signal.
As the community comes to terms with this devastating loss, they remember Casey Nolder’s bright spirit and the potential she had to make a positive impact on the world.
