Tragedy at Periwinkle Creek

On Wednesday, January 18^th, Catherine Sue,18, and Aiden Jaxon McLaughlin, a 20 month old little bundle of joy, died when they car they were riding in was swept into the culvert, that is Periwinkle Creek, next to Mega Foods at 2000 Queen Ave. S.E., Albany, Ore. "The creek, normally about 3 feet deep, this morning was estimated to be at least 10 feet deep. And while it can usually be stepped across, it is as wide today as 25 feet." (OregonLive.com, January, 19th)

Cathy Sue and her love Aiden share a moment.

Around 7 P. M., Chris Wilgus, 24, of Albany was driving into the parking lot and told his father that he hit a large bump and lost control of the car. It was swept away before he was able get everyone out.  His son, Maliki, 5, whom was able to get out, is still in critical condition at OHSU. 

Family and friends held a candlelight vigil on Thursday, January 19^th at 5 P.M.  It was attended by hundreds, who came out to say goodbye or get some closure as they will be missed by all. "I miss my sister so much, “said Jessica McLaughlin. "She was my only sister, and it is way too soon for her to go.  My nephew was just the smartest little boy."(Fox 12 News, January, 19^th.)

Aiden always had a smile on his face per his grandmother.  He was a quiet when you first met him but when he got to know you, he was such a friendly, happy little man and would have been 2 on April 1^st.  Cathy Sue,a mother first was a waiflike,latent flower child who loved rainbows and the kindest, non-violent person you could meet.  She was found about 500 feet from where her son was found in the water by her family, who stayed on after rescuers had left.

No family is prepared for a double tragedy like this and friends and family have set up a series of events and places to contribute for the double burial service.

On January, 25^th at 8 P.M., there will be a benefit concert for Cathy Sue and Aiden.

 Riley’s Bar and Grill

 124 Broadalbin St. S.W.

 Albany, Oregon

There will also be a benefit concert on Friday, January 27th, 2012 from 6 to 9 P.M.

The Riverside Grange

 85283 Riverside Drive

 Albany, Oregon

 Everyone is invited with a $5.00 fee and all proceeds will go to their family.   Performing at the Benefit will be Tragedy 503, Knothead, and NorthWest Noize.

For those not able to come to these benefits, a donation fund has been set up at Umpqua Bank, where you may contribute to the fund under Catherine McLaughlin’s name.