Accident – death – Obituary News :

A Namibian Man and Another Victim Identified in Fatal Hit-and-Run in Montreal

MONTREAL — Montreal authorities have identified the victims of a tragic hit-and-run incident that occurred on New Year’s Day. Augustin Wesley Katimba, 30, and Michael Chintakis, 31, were struck by a vehicle while on foot. The suspect, Antoine Dubuc, 23, is now facing several charges, including dangerous driving causing death, fleeing the scene of the collision, and impaired driving causing death.

The Montreal police reported that the incident took place in the Ahuntsic-Cartierville borough shortly after 1 a.m. Dubuc allegedly struck both pedestrians at high speed before leaving the scene in his vehicle and later fleeing on foot. A court appearance for Dubuc was postponed, and he is now scheduled to appear in court on Monday.

According to Namibia’s ambassador to the United States, Augustin Wesley Katimba was a member of the Namibian diaspora. He had just finished attending church and was on his way home when the fatal accident occurred. His tragic death has deeply saddened his friends and family both in Namibia and abroad.

Michael Chintakis, the second victim, was heading to a party at his friend Spiros Ilias’s home when the accident happened. Chintakis had messaged Ilias moments before, asking for the access code to his building. When Ilias tried to reach Chintakis later, he received no response. It was only when another friend informed him about the bodies on the street that Ilias recognized Chintakis’ jacket under an orange police tarp.

Ilias, devastated by the loss of his longtime friend, described Chintakis as an inspirational and passionate individual who had the ability to light up any room. The two had been friends since Grade 3, and Chintakis was set to celebrate his 32nd birthday on January 14.

Another close friend, Casey Fragoulis, emphasized Chintakis’ kind-hearted nature, stating that he loved and accepted everyone, flaws and all. Fragoulis now looks after Chintakis’ beloved dog, Cashew, as a way to keep a piece of him close.

To help cover Chintakis’ funeral expenses and establish a memorial in his honor, Ilias and other friends have started a GoFundMe campaign. The fundraising post encourages people to cherish their loved ones while they are still present, highlighting the profound impact Chintakis had on those around him.

It is important to remember and celebrate the lives of those we have lost too soon. The Canadian Press initially published this report on January 3, 2024.

Author:

Sidhartha Banerjee, The Canadian Press

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