Fighting for Rural Rail Crossing Safety

Support Jaime Griffiths in Honouring Her Son Ethan (21) and Fighting for Rail Crossing Safety

Hello, my name is Jaime Griffiths, and I am reaching out with a heavy heart and a call for help. I am a single mother, living in a rural regional area in the Riverina area of NSW with my three amazing children—ages 11, 15, and 20. Our family has faced unbearable tragedy and hardship, and I am humbly seeking your support as we navigate through this challenging time.

Just last week, my eldest son, Ethan, who was only 21, lost his life in a devastating and “avoidable” accident when he was hit by a freight train at a hazardous rail crossing just minutes from home. The crossing had no lights, bells, or gates to warn of oncoming trains—something that no family should ever have to face. Losing Ethan has been the hardest thing I have ever endured, and our lives will never be the same without him.

As a former policewoman, I have always been committed to serving and protecting others, but after decades in the Police force, I had to step away due to physical injury and PTSD. This has made it even harder to provide for my family, especially now as a single mother of three.

In addition to the emotional and financial burdens of raising my children on my own, living in a rural area adds extra complexity. Resources and opportunities are limited, making it harder to access the support systems we need.

I want nothing more than to be able to provide my kids with a sense of stability as we heal from this loss.

I am asking for your help not only to support my family but also to help us vigorously campaign for better rail crossing safety across Australia in Ethan’s honour.

No one should have to endure the pain we’ve gone through, and I am committed to raising awareness and pushing for safety measures like lights, bells, and gates at all hazardous crossings.

Your donations will go toward help covering expenses—such as funeral, utilities, medical and general living. As well as supporting our advocacy efforts to prevent further tragedies like Ethan’s.

This is an incredibly difficult time for us, but with your kindness and generosity, we can work to turn this tragedy into a force for change. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for any help you are able to provide.

With deep gratitude,

Jaime Griffiths