Sophia Crestani died after being caught up in a crush of people at an overcrowded Dunedin party in October 2019. Chambers said the party resulted in tragedy but the situation could have been much worse if it was not for Aruwa’s selflessness. A seat in Dunedin was dedicated to Sophia Crestani after her death in 2019. McMillan said Aruwa took control of the situation and stopped more people from coming into the party. Crestani’s father Bede Crestani said Aruwa showed dignity and courage despite chaos from all sides as more people tried to enter the party while others were being crushed.

Source: New Zealand Herald February 26, 2026 09:10 UTC