Sunday, February 9, 2025

Carolina Beach community rallies behind family after tragic accident claims life of child, fundraiser planned

On April 20 a fundraiser will be held at both Lazy Pirate and The Last Resort to help raise money for the family of the child who was killed in a car versus pedestrian accident in March (Port City Daily/Michael Praats)
On April 20 a fundraiser will be held at both Lazy Pirate and The Last Resort to help raise money for the family of the child who was killed in a car versus pedestrian accident in March. (Port City Daily/Michael Praats)

CAROLINA BEACH — The Town of Carolina Beach has a history of rallying behind those in their community that needs help after a tragedy or hardship and the unfortunate accident that claimed the life of a 1-year-old child is no different.

The accident happened in March when Catherine Hagelstein and her granddaughter Cora Kruger were crossing Lake Park Boulevard when a driver failed to stop for them in the intersection.

In true Carolina Beach fashion, the town has taken the opportunity to help someone in need and has planned a full day of events to help Hagelstein and her family recover from the accident.

“As a result of the accident, she can barely walk let alone work it’s our goal while she recovers and while the insurance is settled to raise money for her basic needs for the next several months,” Mayor of Carolina Beach Joe Benson said.

Related: Driver charged after striking pedestrians, killing 1-year-old Wilmington girl in Carolina Beach

Plans are already in the works for an event on April 20 at both The Last Resort as well as Lazy Pirate to help raise funds for Hagelstein and celebrate the life of Cora.

We will start at the Last Resort. Between 2:30 and 5:30 p.m., there’ll be food and music out on the patio. Donations, for the food, for the music and in general, are welcome anytime. There’ll be a number of donation jars placed outside the Last Resort and throughout the Lazy Pirate. [Every] dollar raised will benefit Cathy as she struggles to put her life back together,” Benson wrote.

After the fundraiser at Last Resort, the event will move over to the Lazy Pirate for live music, food, drinks, and a dunk tank.

“There will also be a silent auction, which will take place on the Lazy Pirate restaurant outdoor seating just outside the entrance,” Benson said.

Anyone who wants to donate something to be auctioned off should reach out to Deb LeCompte via email.


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