Family 'completely devastated' after girl dies in Boxing Day crash and robbery
The family of Victoria Desjardins, the nine-year-old girl killed in the Boxing Day crash and robbery at Macleod Trail and Southland Drive, has released a statement following her death.
"We are completely devastated by the loss of our daughter, Victoria Desjardins, who was tragically taken from us just one day after Christmas. "Thursday morning started like any other and within hours our lives changed irreparably," the Desjardins family said.
The Calgary Police Service released the statement on behalf of the Desjardins family. The rest of the family's statement continues:
"Victoria was loved by so many and her loss has left a hole in our hearts that can never be filled. We are completely heartbroken and devastated that our family will forever be incomplete.
"Victoria was a little girl who made everyone laugh. She was known to all her friends, family and teachers as a fun, bubbly and energetic girl. Her favorite activities were anything to do with the outdoors. fishing in the fields, there was a girl who wasn't afraid to bait a hook with a worm. She enjoyed swimming in the lake and spending time on her grandparents' property in British Columbia. She recently began to develop a love for building Legos, home crafts, and baking.
"Victoria wanted to be a soccer player when she grew up. She was an example of kindness with a gentle spirit that touched everyone who knew her. A bright light that captured the hearts of all who knew her.
"Victoria will be greatly missed by her parents, older sister, grandparents, extended family, relatives, and friends. "At this time, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has shown us their love, support and help during this incredibly difficult time.
"A close family friend has set up a Go Fund Me page to help them take the next steps in life. We would like to thank everyone who has already made such generous donations.
"A parent should never be taller than their child. We are now forced to live the rest of our lives without our beloved daughter, who had her whole life ahead of her. We are deprived of the opportunity to celebrate life's moments or enjoy everyday life with her. We will never be able to fully heal until justice is served for Victoria."
A crime leads to a tragic death
On Boxing Day. Victoria, her 12-year-old sister Madison and their mother Amanda Reitmeier were hit by a driver in a stolen vehicle who was fleeing police. Madison and Amanda were taken to the hospital in critical condition.
Authorities say the incident began with a robbery around 9:30 a.m. Thursday at a Pharmasave at 15 Millrise Blvd. S.W.
Police say a pharmacist was attacked and his vehicle stolen, and the suspect fled at a high rate of speed, refusing to stop for police.
HAWCS pursued the vehicle, police said, but it ran a red light at Southland Drive and Macleod Trail, colliding with four other vehicles.
One person was arrested at the scene.
Duane Arlen John Nepoose, 30, was charged with burglary, theft of a vehicle, fleeing from police, dangerous driving, dangerous driving causing death and three counts of dangerous driving causing bodily harm, as well as driving an unlicensed vehicle, driving without registration and driving without insurance.
He remains in custody, awaiting a court appearance.
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