Family describe 9-year-old killed in Boxing Day car crash as ‘bubbly and energetic’
The family of a nine-year-old girl killed in a multi-car collision on Boxing Day say they are devastated by their loss.
Victoria Desjardins died at the hospital Thursday afternoon after the car she was riding in with her mother, Amanda Reitmeier, and sister was struck by another vehicle. The driver of the other car ran a red light.
In a statement released by Calgary police, the family said: “Thursday morning was like any other morning when, in just a few hours, our lives were irrevocably changed.”
“Victoria was loved by many and her passing has left a void in our hearts that will never be filled. We are … completely devastated and our family will never be complete.”
Victoria’s family said she could make everyone laugh and described her as a “bubbly and energetic” girl. She enjoyed the outdoors, camping, fishing and swimming in the lake.
They added that she wanted to be a soccer player when she grew up and had recently developed an interest in building Lego and baking.
“She was a beacon of kindness and a gentle soul who touched all who knew her. A shining light that captured the hearts of all who knew her,” the statement read.
“We will never fully recover until Victoria gets justice.”
Criminal charges were filed following the crash.
Duane Arlen John Nepoose, 30, faces charges including robbery, theft of a motor vehicle, fleeing police, dangerous driving, dangerous driving Dangerous driving causing death, unauthorized driving of a vehicle without a driving licence, driving a vehicle without registration, driving a vehicle without insurance, dangerous driving causing bodily harm.
Police said speed and impairment were considered contributing factors.
Police say Nipps fled the pharmacy robbery in a stolen 2015 Dodge Caravan around 9:30 a.m. Thursday. The minivan was traveling north on Macleod Trail and failed to stop at a red light at Southland Drive, striking two westbound vehicles: a 2009 Pontiac Vibe and a 2014 Toyota 4Runner.
Victoria and her family are in the mood.
The family has asked for privacy at this time, according to a statement released by police.
