Chelsea Hacker Remembered for Her Compassion and Joy After Fatal Tonawanda Crash

The woman who lost her life in a tragic car accident Monday on Twin Cities Memorial Highway has been identified as Chelsea Hacker, a dedicated nurse, animal lover, and vibrant soul remembered by those who knew her for her deep compassion and boundless energy.

According to City of Tonawanda Police, Hacker, 30-years-old, died after her Chevrolet Trailblazer was rear-ended by another vehicle around 5:15pm. She was transported to DeGraff Memorial Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. The crash remains under investigation and no charges had been filed as of Tuesday morning.

Chelsea began her nursing journey in early 2020 and quickly became a respected caregiver at Buffalo General Hospital. Her exceptional commitment to patient care earned her formal recognition with a nursing excellence award. But those closest to her knew her greatest reward came from the impact she had on others’ lives.

Raised in Buffalo, Chelsea’s childhood was shaped by a loving, multigenerational family that included her mother Valerie Wieczorek, grandparents Doreen and Nick Andrejczuk, and great-grandmother Frances Cyrankowski. Known from an early age for her bright personality and spirited curiosity, Chelsea lived life with enthusiasm—from joining the diving team without knowing how to swim to leaving long, heartfelt messages for her grandmother just to share a thought or moment.

She brought that same energy and warmth to everyone around her. Her siblings—Thomas, Kennedy, Luke, and Riley—remember her as a protective, joyful presence, always willing to offer comfort or a laugh when it was needed most.

Chelsea had a wide array of passions. She loved amusement parks, animals—especially her dogs Gauge, Tex, and Lucky—and artistic expression, often channeling her creativity through painting and murals. One of her proudest artistic contributions was a mural she painted in a friend’s nursery.

Her personal life flourished when she met Tom, the man who would become her partner and soulmate. Though she had once declared herself "against marriage," her relationship with Tom changed everything. Together, they shared dreams, adventures, and laughter—from sports events and vacations to quiet nights in. Chelsea was ready to build a future with him rooted in love.

Chelsea also had a bold, adventurous streak. She enjoyed casinos, music, and living life on her own terms. Those who knew her best describe her as the life of every room—quick-witted, kind-hearted, and unafraid to live fully and love fiercely.

Chelsea’s passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of her family, friends, coworkers, and patients. Her legacy, however, endures in the memories, stories, and everyday kindnesses she inspired. In lieu of flowers, her family requests that donations be made in her memory to the SPCA Serving Erie County.

A link to Chelsea's obituary can be found HERE.

Chelsea Hacker Remembered for Her Compassion and Joy After Fatal Tonawanda Crash