Image: GoFundMe / Anthony Hetzel with wife Ashley and son Fox. Hetzel died Thursday morning in Abbotsford after being hit by a snow plow operated by a private company, leaving behind his wife and son.
Abbotsford man dies

Abbotsford man who died after being hit by a snow plow in Abbotsford leaves behind wife, young son

Jan 20, 2024 | 2:53 PM

**Update Sunday night, Jan. 21 at 9 p.m.: The GoFundMe for Anthony Hetzel’s family has now raised nearly $73,000 from just under 1,000 donors.**

Original story below:

CHILLIWACK — An Abbotsford man who was on his way to work Thursday morning (Jan. 18) has died after being hit by a snow plow operated by a private company.

An online fundraiser has been started for the family of 31-year-old Anthony Hetzel, who succumbed to his injuries after being struck by a vehicle Thursday at approximately 6:16 a.m.

According to a news release from the Abbotsford Police Department, responding officers from the AbbyPD arrived on scene to the area of North Parallel Road and Fooks Road and found a 31-year-old man suffering from serious, life-threatening injuries. Constable Art Stele, media relations spokesperson for the AbbyPD, says medical aid was immediately provided, and the male was transported to hospital in critical condition. He later died.

The driver of the involved vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. Impairment is not believed to be a factor in the crash, with inclement weather and snow likely being contributing factors, Cst. Stele said.

Hetzel was the sole provider for his young family, leaving behind a devastated wife, Ashley, 1 1/2-year-old son Fox, and stunned parents and friends.

“Anthony was on his way to work when his car ended up in a ditch. He was walking down the road for help when he was struck by a private snow plow truck,” said the GoFundMe fundraiser started by Meagan McManus. “He fought so hard but succumbed to his injuries. He was only 31 years old and the sole income earner for the family. His wife is now a single mother and in desperate need of financial help during this time.”

The fundraiser for Hetzel’s wife and son has already raised over $62,000 from 805 donations in just two days.

“Wow. We want to thank everyone for their support and thoughtful messages,” McManus wrote in the GoFundMe. “We have moved the goal up a bit to make sure the family is able to cover any upfront expenses and living costs while they process and figure out their next steps. Please, please, please keep donating and sharing! Ashley and Fox need us right now.”

Abbotsford PD is asking anyone with dashcam footage or information relating to this case to contact the AbbyPD at 604-859-5225.