The Harrow community is grieving the tragic loss of 19-year-old Mendaye 'Mendy' Goossen, who was killed in a collision with an Essex County Ontario Provincial Police cruiser on Sunday, November 2, 2025.
A Life of Creativity and Quiet Wisdom
Described by her family as a beautiful and creative young woman, Mendaye Goossen is remembered for her gentle spirit and thoughtful nature. Her brother, Alex Goossen, shared that she was a quiet yet deeply insightful person. "She didn't say a lot, but when she did, it was worth hearing," Alex said. "She was quiet, creative, and thoughtful — the perfect friend you could ask for."
Mendy's creativity manifested in many ways. She had a passion for drawing, video editing, and enjoyed music and art. She recently attended her first concert to see The Lumineers with her eldest brother. Her family noted she carried a wonderful sense of curiosity and imagination throughout her life and had hoped to travel more to see the world.
A Family's Love and a Tragic Loss
Born in Ethiopia on February 19, 2006, Mendy was adopted at age four and came to Canada with her family in 2010. She was the beloved daughter of Bruce and Janice Goossen, sister to Quinten, Karsten, and Alex, and a loving aunt to Kylan, Emery, and Lily.
Alex, who is also adopted, reflected on their special bond: "We both got a second chance with a family that loved us. She was my sister but also my best friend. We couldn't have asked for a better family to grow up in." The family's obituary also mentions she will be deeply missed by her extended family, many dear friends, and her cherished cat, Amber Storm.
Investigation Underway After Fatal Incident
The fatal collision occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday, November 2, around 4:25 a.m. The incident took place on County Road 20, east of Iler Road in the Town of Essex—a rural roadway not lit by streetlights.
Police reported that the pedestrian was transported to the hospital by Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services paramedics, where she was pronounced deceased. Ontario's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has confirmed it is investigating the death of the 19-year-old woman. No other details have been released by police at this time.
"It wasn't something we were expecting," Alex told the Windsor Star. "I still don't know if I've gotten over the initial shock." The community now remembers a young life, full of potential, tragically cut short.
