Community Support for the Reitmeier-Desjardins Family

The Calgary community is uniting in a show of support for the family of a nine-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a horrific five-vehicle collision on Boxing Day at the intersection of Macleod Trail and Southland Drive.

A GoFundMe campaign was launched on Friday to help cover funeral expenses and aid the Reitmeier-Desjardins family during this incredibly difficult time. The young victim, Victoria, was killed in what a Calgary Fire Department battalion chief described as potentially the most devastating accident in the city for the year.

Ongoing Recovery for the Survivors

Tragically, Victoria’s 12-year-old sister, Madison, along with their mother, Amanda Reitmeier, are still recovering in the hospital from injuries sustained in the crash. The GoFundMe page highlights the urgent need for support, stating, 'We are looking to get Trevor Desjardins’ family support to fund a funeral for Victoria as well as help with the long road of recovery that lays ahead for these ladies.'

Fundraising Efforts and Community Solidarity

As of Friday afternoon, the fundraising efforts had amassed over $63,000, with the goal set at $200,000 to assist the family during this time of unimaginable grief.

Zara Wishloff, president of Automotive Parts Distributors, initiated the fundraiser to provide support for Amanda, who has been with the company for nearly 11 years and serves as the Calgary branch manager. Wishloff emphasized the closeness of the Reitmeier-Desjardins family, noting that both Victoria and Madison often visited their mother at work.

'This family has a very painful journey ahead of them and they’re dealing with unimaginable loss at this time,' Wishloff stated. 'To alleviate the financial burden and allow them to focus on healing is the least we could do.'

Details of the Accident

The tragic accident occurred just before 10 a.m. on Boxing Day when a suspect, allegedly fleeing from a robbery at Pharmasave Millrise, collided with another vehicle while running a red light. After refusing to stop for police, the suspect, driving a stolen grey minivan, crashed into a vehicle in the intersection, leading to the tragic loss of Victoria’s life.

Legal Consequences for the Driver

The driver, identified as 30-year-old Duane Arlen John Nepoose, faces 11 charges related to the incident, including dangerous driving causing death and theft of a motor vehicle. He remains in custody pending future court proceedings.

A Community in Mourning

The community's response showcases the heartwarming spirit of solidarity in times of tragedy, with many hoping to lift the burden off the grieving family as they navigate this heartbreaking chapter of their lives.