RELATED STORIES
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
The woman who tragically lost her life in a police pursuit that resulted in a fatal crash on Saturday has been identified as Kassandra Gartner from Fort Saskatchewan.
The incident took place when Mounties were attempting to stop a U-Haul truck that had reportedly rammed a police cruiser on Saturday evening. The pursuit led to a tragic turn of events in the area of 50 Street and Highway 814 in Beaumont.
The Victim: Kassandra Gartner
Kassandra Gartner, aged 45, was not involved in the police pursuit. After hitting a tire deflation device laid by Mounties, she got out of her SUV and was fatally struck by the U-Haul truck.
Her family released a heartfelt statement on Monday, expressing their profound sadness and remembering Kassandra as a beloved wife, mother, sister, daughter, and friend.
Community Remembers Kassandra Gartner
Fort Saskatchewan Mayor Gale Katchur paid tribute to Kassandra, highlighting her role as the executive director of the Fort Saskatchewan Food Bank. Kassandra was known for her dedication and commitment to serving the community.
Katchur described Kassandra as a dynamic person who recognized the need for the food bank to expand and grow to better meet the community’s needs. She started as a volunteer before becoming the executive director.
Kassandra leaves behind her husband and three young daughters, leaving a void in the community that will be deeply felt.
Search for the Suspect
The driver of the U-Haul fled the scene after hitting Kassandra, striking another vehicle and causing serious injuries to the occupant. The crashed U-Haul was later found at a gas station in Edmonton.
The driver then stole a 2020 Honda Civic with a child inside, who was later dropped off unharmed. The Civic was found abandoned outside the city, as police continue their search for the suspect.
The suspect is described as approximately 5’11”, wearing a black hoodie with white text, brown shorts, and black shoes. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Beaumont RCMP or Crime Stoppers.
The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) is investigating the use of the tire deflation device that led to Kassandra’s tragic death, as they look into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The community mourns the loss of Kassandra Gartner and stands united in seeking justice for her and her family.
.