Family of girl killed in accident at Derby gas station giving back to community in her name

DERBY, Kan. (KWCH) - The family of three-and-a-half-year-old Harper Justice Ivy is holding a holiday bike drive in her honor and memory. Harper died in a vehicle fire at a Derby QuikTrip in 2023. As the family continues to heal, their focus is on giving back to their community that’s been there for them.

Harper’s father, Brandon Ivy, discussed the outpouring of support that followed the tragedy in April 2023.

“We’ve had so much help through the process last year, just financially, just help with everything, and it’s been over a year and a half, so we’re just trying to give back,” Ivy said.

With the Harper Justice Ivy Bike Drive, the family is gathering donations to purchase bikes and scooters for others who may not be able to afford new ones. The effort honors a little girl, who, her father said, “loved her scooter and bike.”

In 14 days, the family has already surpassed its goal of 50 bikes and scooters. They’re excited to see how many more they can collect this season with the drive continuing until Dec. 21.

“Oh, we’re going for a hundred,” Ivy said.

He said he’s always had a heart to give back to the community, but getting to honor his daughter’s memory makes this holiday season effort more special.

“It means the world. We miss her, we love her, we grieve for her every day,” Ivy said of Harper. I mean, she loved everybody the same, didn’t hate nobody. It was never a bad time with her. She was three-and-a-half years old, and she’ll forever be three-and-a-half to us.”

The family said while this year’s bike drive was impromptu, it won’t be the last time they do it.

“So, next year we’re going to do it again. I mean, it’s just be nice giving back to kids that just can’t unfortunately get that,” Ivy said.

Brandon Ivy and his family are accepting donations at First Man Brewery in Derby. Those wishing to donate can find information in a public post on Brandon Ivy’s Facebook page.