Family of girl killed in Macleod Trail crash grateful for support amid ‘devastating’ loss

The family of the nine-year-old girl killed in a crash on Macleod Trail says their daughter was loved by many and is devastated at the loss.

In a statement released by Calgary police, the Reitmeier-Dejardins family say Victoria Desjardins, who died on Boxing Day after the suspect ran a red light and crashed into the family vehicle, say they are grateful for the support in this “incredibly difficult time.”

“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 statement reads.

“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.”

The incident happened just before 10 a.m. on Macleod Trail and Southland Drive.

Police say they responded to reports of a pharmacy robbery at Pharmasave Millrise at around 9 a.m., where the suspect allegedly assaulted a pharmacist and drove away in a stolen car.

Officers believe the suspect was driving a stolen 2015 Dodge Caravan erratically, weaving in and out of traffic.

After a chase that saw police take to the skies, the driver drove through a red light on Macleod and Southland, striking a 2014 Toyota 4Runner and a 2009 Pontiac Vibe.

The Vibe was driven by Amanda Reitmeir, who was with her children Victoria and Madison.

The family says Victoria wanted to be a football player when she grew up, would make everybody laugh, and was known by many 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,” the family said.

“She was a beacon of kindness with a gentle soul that touched all who knew her. A shining 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.”

Privacy is being asked so they can grieve the sudden loss of their “daughter, sister, granddaughter, and friend.”

Fundraiser set up for family involved in crash

A fundraiser has been set up to help the family.

Reitmeir’s employer Zara Wishloff started the GoFundMe and has a goal of $200,000.

“We are looking to get Trevor Desjardin’s family support to fund a funeral for Victoria as well as help with the long road of recovery that lays ahead for these ladies,” Wishloff said on the GoFundMe.

He says all the funds raised are going directly to the family to alleviate the financial burden of funeral decisions and to “help with their journey of recovery that they will be facing.”