(Toronto) The families of Alek Minassian’s victims are preparing for sentencing submissions that begin this week.
Posted at 11:52
Justice Anne Molloy convicted Alek Minassian last year of 10 counts of first-degree murder and 16 counts of attempted murder in connection with the April 23, 2018 vehicle ramming attack on the streets of Toronto.
An eleventh victim of the attack, Amaresh Tesfamariam, died last October from his injuries.
Starting Monday, families will be able to testify to the impact this tragedy has had on their lives.
“We will fight like she did,” said Luwam Ogbaselassie, a niece of Mr.me Tesfamariam.
The Minassian attack also claimed the lives of Betty Forsyth, Ji Hun Kim, So He Chung, Geraldine Brady, Chul Min Kang, Anne Marie D’Amico, Munir Najjar, Dorothy Sewell, Andrea Bradden and Beutis Renuka Amarasingha.
Photo Olivier Jean, LA PRESSE archives
In writing his testimony, Mr.me Ogbaselassie must have thought again of his aunt’s great suffering. But reflection also allowed him to find a certain strength.
“The fact that she fought for such a long time inspired us. We will always remember her will to live, she said. We will fight like she did. »
The submissions on the sentence will allow the family to tell the story of Ms.me Tesfamariam, not just his death.
But it hasn’t been easy.
“She lived in such suffering, while remaining strong. This is what we want to remember. »
Cathy Riddell survived her injuries. She had suffered fractures to her spine, ribs, shoulder blades and pelvis. She had also suffered significant internal injuries and a brain injury.
Now 71, she says she was confident before the start of observations on her attacker’s sentence.
The one who lifted dumbbells at the gym twice a week before the accident felt revived when she swapped the walker for the cane.
Mme Riddell is looking forward to testifying about his life after the tragedy this week, although it may be difficult. She had started writing it when she was still hospitalized. In her eyes, this document would be useful for her and the other victims.
“This is my chance to stand up in court and say what I feel. This is an important moment for all of us. »