The Squamish community and the University of British Columbia (UBC) are mourning the tragic and untimely death of Mateja Clifford, a beloved student and vibrant young soul whose life was cut short in a devastating accident in Squamish, British Columbia.
Mateja Clifford died following a tragic crash that occurred over the weekend, sending shockwaves through both her local community and the UBC campus, where she was widely admired for her academic dedication, kindness, and bright personality.
Her sudden passing has left her family, friends, classmates, and professors struggling to process a profound and heartbreaking loss. Mateja was a dedicated member of the UBC community, pursuing her studies with passion and purpose.
Known for her warm demeanor, positive energy, and compassion for others, she quickly became a familiar and cherished face in lecture halls and study groups. Her professors recall her as a committed student with a bright future, always eager to contribute and collaborate.
Her peers remember her not only for her intellect, but for her uplifting spirit and ability to make others feel seen and supported. Originally from British Columbia, Mateja had a deep love for the outdoors—a love that brought her frequently to the Squamish area.
Whether hiking, exploring nature, or simply spending time with friends under the open sky, she found peace and joy in the natural beauty of her surroundings. It was this deep connection to the land that made her tragic passing in Squamish especially poignant.
The details of the accident remain under investigation, but what remains undeniable is the immense impact Mateja had in her short time on this earth.
Her passing leaves behind an immeasurable void, not only in the hearts of those who knew her personally but also in the broader communities she was a part of. UBC officials extended their condolences, noting that the loss of a student affects the entire university family.
Counselors and grief support services have been made available to students and faculty in the wake of the tragedy. On social media, tributes have poured in, painting a picture of a young woman who was vibrant, courageous, and deeply kind.
Friends have shared memories of Mateja’s laughter, her loyalty, her adventurous spirit, and her ability to bring people together. “Mateja had this incredible light about her,” one friend wrote. “She made you feel like you mattered. That’s a rare and beautiful gift.”
A vigil is being planned by friends and classmates to honor her memory—a moment to come together in grief, reflection, and celebration of the remarkable life she lived. While her life was far too short, the mark Mateja left will endure. Her legacy will be one of love, learning, and light.
Mateja Clifford is survived by her loving family, who have requested privacy during this time of unimaginable grief. Their heartbreak is shared by an entire community that admired Mateja for all she was and all she was becoming.
As the news continues to settle, one truth remains constant: Mateja Clifford was deeply loved and will be deeply missed. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her. In every act of kindness, every hike taken in the beauty of British Columbia, and every corner of UBC where her spirit once thrived—Mateja’s light continues to shine.
