According to a gofundme campaign, the single fatality that was reported on as a result of a dozen-vehicle collision north of Veterans Boulevard along Highway 72 earlier this week has since been identified as a 36-year-old man and a father of two children. 

RCMP confirmed to Discover Airdrie that the man was a resident of Carstairs. 

"On December 27th life for the Dowell family changed forever. Brad, devoted husband to Shyla and loving father to Brody (7) and Beau (2) was involved in a highway collision that tragically took his life too soon," the gofundme website stated.

Initially, the RCMP had reported that no fatalities occurred on Tuesday, December 27. However, by Wednesday morning they confirmed a fatality and nine other individuals were injured. Police initially responded to the collision at 10:10 p.m. along with EMS and various area fire departments, including Airdrie, Rockyview, Didsbury and Carstairs. A portion of the QEII was closed for over a day.

According to the gofundme page, Dowell was a doting father and loving husband supporting his wife who had hopes of becoming an RCMP officer herself. 

"Brad would go the extra mile ANYTIME someone needed a helping hand or a favour. He always found a brave face and the silver lining in every situation and supported those around him to do the same. He was a great role model for his boys and all those around him. Shyla has been a figure in the community as she managed a local restaurant."

According to police, preliminary information determined that a commercial vehicle including a trailer, along with five sedan cars, four pickup trucks, three SUV’s and a passenger van were involved in this incident.

The gofundme campaign has amassed tens of thousands of dollars of donations. 

"Like most young folks, Shyla and Brad did not see the end in sight and were busy creating a life for their boys, not planning for a shortened one. Who can prepare for something as devastating as the loss of a Husband and father? The coming months and years will be a difficult time for the Dowell family as they navigate life without Brad there," the campaign stated.

On December 30, The Gentlemen Pros Plumbing, Heating & Electrical company also released a statement on social media about the passing of their colleague.

"Brad’s precious family is in our thoughts and prayers as they get through this horrific incident. Affectionately known at the Bradifier, his fun-loving nature, and gentle and humble attitude, will be deeply missed," the statement read in part. 

A member of the family who contacted Discover Airdrie also added that a trust fund has been set up at the ATB Bank with 100 per cent of the donations going directly to the family. Donations can be made in person with a manager at Boston Pizza Olds during the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 8:00 pm. Those wishing to donate can go to any ATB branch and make a donation under Brad or Shyla's name or by e-transfer at dowellfamilyfunds@gmail.com.

"Details of the cause of the collision remain under investigation, with primary factors appearing to be weather and road conditions," a previous police press release stated.

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