Prosecutors are seeking a sentence of up to 10½ years for a Calgary man described as a 'bomb waiting to go off' after a deadly high-speed crash that killed a nine-year-old girl.
Deadly New Year's Day Crash
Duane Nepoose, 31, pleaded guilty last June to multiple charges, including dangerous driving causing death, in connection with a Boxing Day 2024 crime spree. On New Year's Day 2024, Nepoose ran a red light at high speed on Macleod Trail at Southland Drive, colliding with two vehicles and killing nine-year-old Victoria Desjardins. The crash also injured Victoria's mother, Amanda Reitmeier, and her older sister, as well as another motorist.
Prosecutor's Arguments
Crown lawyer Todd Buziak told Justice Indra Maharaj that a psychiatric assessment deemed Nepoose a high risk to reoffend, with a history of violent crimes including drug debt collecting and reactive violence. 'Mr. Nepoose's current risk of future violent behaviour is high,' Buziak said, proposing a sentence in the 9½- to 10½-year range.
Buziak emphasized that Nepoose had failed earlier attempts at substance abuse rehabilitation and remains a danger to society. 'We're dealing with an individual who is, as far as society is concerned, a bomb waiting to go off,' he stated.
Details of the Crime Spree
Court heard shocking video evidence from the HAWCS police helicopter showing Nepoose driving a stolen van at high speeds on multiple streets in Calgary's south. The van accelerated to approximately 170 km/h on major roadways before heading northbound on Macleod Trail, running red lights at 109th Avenue and 99th Avenue. The fatal collision occurred when Nepoose struck the silver Pontiac Vibe driven by Reitmeier.
A memorial remains at the intersection of Southland Drive and Macleod Trail, where flowers and tributes have been placed in memory of Victoria Desjardins.
Next Steps in Sentencing
Justice Maharaj is still to hear victim impact statements and submissions from the defence. The court will determine the final sentence after considering all evidence and arguments.
This case has drawn significant attention in Calgary, highlighting the devastating consequences of reckless driving. The community continues to mourn the loss of a young life cut short by a preventable tragedy.
