A Calgary mother whose daughter was killed in a five-vehicle crash on Boxing Day is speaking for the first time about her family’s recovery journey.
Amanda Reitmeier’s youngest daughter, nine-year-old Victoria Desjardins, died in hospital after the family’s vehicle was struck by a driver who police say was fleeing officers when he ran a red light on Dec. 26, 2024.
Reitmeier said her family focuses on memories of Victoria, who loved animals and sports and was known for her kindness.
“Just what a lively kid she was and how much she loved life, and she wouldn’t want us to sit around. She would want us to be out,” she said.
Reitmeier said she doesn’t remember much about the crash except that she was knocked out when her car was hit and woke to her eldest daughter, 12-year-old Madison, screaming.
Both Madison and Reitmeier were rushed to hospital in life-threatening condition but are now back at home.
“It was a big step to the recovery,” Reitmeier said.
Madison is now out of a neck brace.
Reitmeier fractured her pelvis and spine and can finally walk short distances using a cane but is still recovering.
“Victoria is my strength. Madison is my strength. I get through every day because of those two and my husband,” Reitmeier said.
When Reitmeier is able to make the journey, the family plans to visit relatives in B.C. to have a celebration of life for Victoria.
The family is overwhelmed by the donations and kind messages from people across the country.
“It’s amazing the support all of Canada has brought to us,” Reitmeier said.
The family met near Victoria’s school because it brings back happy memories, including smiles and blistered hands due to her love of the monkey bars and her giddiness getting a slurpee on their last walk as a family.
“Just little memories like that just kind of click in your head about what she was all about,” Reitmeier said.
Prior to the deadly crash, police say a pharmacist in Millrise was attacked and their vehicle was stolen.
Police say the suspect sped off, evading officers and blowing through 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, faces multiple charges, including dangerous driving causing death.
He has been found fit to stand trial.
