Guilty plea in connection with Kelowna teen’s death

The family and friends of Tristan Seeger, a 15-year-old Kelowna teen who died after being hit by a vehicle, gathered in a court on Tuesday as the accused, Brandon Kazakoff, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death and assault. The guilty pleas arise from an incident on October 21, 2023. Tristan's father, Jason Seeger, expressed relief that Kazakoff admitted to the tragedy, though he acknowledged the plea may not have been remorseful.

Tristan's mother, Paule Moore, wanted Kazakoff to face the family, stating, "He killed my son with a car. He didn't even have the guts to look him in the eye, and he needed to look us in the eye." The court heard that Tristan was with a group of teenagers involved in an incident where Kazakoff's father was sprayed with bear spray.

Kazakoff then sought out the teenagers, assaulted one of them, and eventually returned to his car. At the time of the fatal collision, Tristan had deployed bear spray at Kazakoff's vehicle and then deliberately drove into him. Kazakoff fled the scene afterward. In the following days, he changed his license plates and set his car on fire.

Kazakoff's lawyer described the incident as a "horrendous, horrible mistake" and noted his client's remorse for his actions. For the family, the guilty plea ends the need to relive the case through a trial, but they emphasize that no court outcome can undo their loss. When asked about justice, Jason Seeger said, "Bring my son back, but we know that's not going to happen."

Instead, the family cherishes the memories of their son, noting his laughter, charisma, and adventurous spirit. Kazakoff is set to be sentenced later in 2027.