Family 'absolutely crushed' in wake of girl's death in Boxing Day crash, robbery

Victoria Desjardins, third from left, with her family in an undated photo. ((Supplied/GoFundMe)

The family of Victoria Desjardins, the nine-year-old killed in the Boxing Day crash and robbery at Macleod Trail and Southland Drive, has shared a statement on her passing.

“We are absolutely crushed by the loss of our daughter, Victoria Desjardins, who was tragically taken from us, just one day after Christmas. Thursday morning started out as any other, and within a few short hours, our lives have been irreparably changed,” the Desjardins family said.

The Calgary Police Service released the statement on behalf of the Desjardins family. The remainder of the family's statement went on to say:

"Victoria was loved by so many, and her loss has left a void in our hearts that can never be filled. We are completely overwhelmed with grief and utterly devastated that our family will forever be incomplete.

"Victoria was a girl who made everybody laugh. She was known to all her friends, family, and teachers as an outgoing, bubbly, and energetic girl. Her favourite activities were anything to do with the outdoors. From camping to fishing, she was a girl who was not afraid to bait a hook with a worm. She loved swimming in the lake, and spending time at her grandparent’s property in B.C. She recently started to develop a love for building Legos, doing crafts at home, and baking.

"Victoria wanted to be a football player when she grew up. She was a beacon of kindness with a gentle soul that touched all who knew her. A shinning light that captures the hearts of all who knew her.

"Victoria is deeply missed by her parents, her older sister, grandparents, extended family and relatives and friends.

"At this time, we want to express our sincerest gratitude to everyone for their love and support and helping us through this incredibly difficult time.

"A close family friend has set up a Go Fund Me page to help us navigate the next steps of life. We would like to thank everyone who have so generously donated already.

"A parent should never outlive 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 were robbed of the chance to celebrate life’s milestones or enjoy day-to-day life with her. We will never fully be able to heal until justice is served for Victoria.”

Crime led to tragic death

On Boxing Day. Victoria, her 12-year-old sister Madison and mother Amanda Reitmeier were struck by a driver in a stolen vehicle fleeing from police. Both Madison and Amanda had to be rushed to hospital in life-threating condition.

Officials say the incident began as a robbery around 9:30 a.m. on Thursday at a Pharmasave at 15 Millrise Blvd. S.W.

Police said a pharmacist was attacked and their vehicle was stolen, and the suspect fled the scene at a high rate of speed, refusing to stop for police.

HAWCS followed the vehicle, police said, but it ran a red light at Southland Drive and Macleod Trail, colliding with four other vehicles.

A man was arrested at the scene.

Duane Arlen John Nepoose, 30, has been charged with robbery, theft of a motor vehicle, flight from police, dangerous driving, dangerous driving causing death and three counts of dangerous driving causing bodily harm, as well as operating a vehicle without a licence, operating a vehicle without registration and operating a vehicle without insurance.

He remains in custody, awaiting a court date.