A woman who tried to rescue one of the victims of the tragedy in Amqui on Monday evening is struggling to get out of her head the vision of horror she witnessed when she saw all the victims scattered on the ground.
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March 13, 2023 was a totally ordinary day for Isabelle Gagné, who had just finished her shift at the local convenience store around 3 p.m. But on the way back, she came across a horror scene that she will never forget.
“When I arrived, there were bodies everywhere. There was blood, people screaming for their children, pieces of clothing that flew through the air,” says the 46-year-old woman, testifying to the tragic atmosphere of the scene.
Stevens LeBlanc/JOURNAL DE QUEBEC
A few moments earlier, the driver of a van had deliberately rammed into a dozen pedestrians who were taking advantage of a beautiful sunny day.
Nothing more to do
Knowing the maneuvers of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, Ms. Gagné immediately rushed to offer her assistance to one of the victims, Gérald Charest.
“It was my first time. It’s the kind of knowledge you’d rather never have to put into practice,” she sighs.
For almost 20 minutes, Mme Gagne tried unsuccessfully to bring the 65-year-old back to life, to no avail. As she was about to use a defibrillator, a paramedic patted her on the shoulder, confirming that there was nothing more to do.
“When I close my eyes, I still see his bloodied face. I would have liked to be able to do more,” breathes the 46-year-old woman, visibly moved by the situation.
Mental Health
Mme Gagné also points out that she knew several of the people who were caught up in this tragedy, as it is a small town.
“That’s what makes it all even more difficult,” admits the one who “miraculously” found the strength to return to work on Tuesday morning.
Isabelle Gagné also invited people who need support not to hesitate to ask for help in this situation. She will go herself to meet professionals shortly to help her overcome this ordeal.