Guilty plea in connection with Kelowna teen’s death

The family of Tristan Seeger, a 15-year-old Kelowna teenager who died after being hit by a vehicle, gathered in court as Brandon Kazakoff pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death and assault. Tristan's father, Jason Seeger, said he was glad Kazakoff admitted what he did, though he questioned whether it was genuine remorse.

Tristan's mother, Paule Moore, wanted Kazakoff to face the family and expressed her desire for him to look them in the eye. The incident leading to Tristan's death occurred on October 21, 2023, when Kazakoff, driven by anger following a previous confrontation, chased and assaulted one of the teenagers involved. Kazakoff then got back into his car, stopped at an intersection, and fatally hit Tristan after she sprayed bear repellent at him.

Kazakoff fled the scene, later changing his license plates and setting his car ablaze. His defense lawyer, Glenn Verdurmen, described the incident as a "horrendous, horrible mistake" and noted his client's remorse. The guilty plea relieves Tristan's family from reliving the case through a trial, though they emphasize that no court outcome can undo their loss.

Jason Seeger said there is no true justice, as his son cannot be brought back. The family cherishes memories of a lively, adventurous teenager and continues to mourn his absence daily. Kazakoff is scheduled to be sentenced in early 2027.