Family of Capt. Jenn Casey, killed in Snowbird crash, releases statement

Casey grew up in Halifax and worked as a journalist before embarking on a career as a public affairs officer for the Snowbirds. 

The jet she was in crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday and burst into flames in the front yard of a house in Kamloops, B.C.

The Snowbirds have been on a cross-country tour to raise people’s spirits during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the statement from her family, they say the mission was “designed for her.”

“Operation Inspiration is a mission with one focus: making Canadians happy in a time of uncertainty. And there was no better person in this world to carry out that mission then Jenn.”

Watch | B.C. pilots pay tribute to the Snowbirds after crash:

“She was a storyteller, a role that she embraced with passion and skill,” her family said.

Casey joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 2014, which allowed her to travel around the world, “meeting new friends at every stop along the way.” Her family said she excelled telling the stories of the brave men and women serving at home and abroad.

“Her journey took her many places but her heart was always at home in Halifax,” the family said, adding that Casey was a proud Nova Scotian.

“Many say that the military is much like a second family, and Jenn welcomed these brothers and sisters with open arms and all of her heart.”

She studied journalism at the University of King’s College before starting her career at radio station News 95.7 in Halifax. That job developed her storytelling skills and allowed Casey to give a voice to local causes and community groups, her family said.

It’s also where she built an enormous network of friends, who the family said have been sharing kind words about her professionalism and “beautiful character” this week.

“Our hearts are with all of you at this time as you mourn the loss of Jenn and remember all of the memories we shared with her.”

The family says Nova Scotia will be Casey’s final resting place.

“We ask those who knew and loved Jenn to cherish the memories you have of her and continue to bask in the light she shone on everyone’s life,” the family said.

“She is gone but she will never be forgotten.”

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