Members of Montreal’s Ukrainian community continue to mourn the tragic loss of seven-year-old Mariia Legenkovska, a refugee from Ukraine who was fatally struck by a hit-and-run driver while walking to school in December 2022. The incident, which occurred in the Sainte-Marie district, has reignited discussions about pedestrian safety in the city.
Mariia and her family had fled the conflict in Ukraine, seeking safety in Montreal. However, their hopes for a new beginning were shattered by the devastating accident. The driver responsible for the incident initially fled the scene but later turned himself in to authorities.
The recent coroner’s report on Mariia’s death attributed the tragedy to a combination of the driver’s failure to fully stop at an intersection and the blinding morning sun. As a result, recommendations have been made to enhance pedestrian safety measures, including the installation of speed bumps, bollards, and curb extensions at intersections. Additionally, the report highlighted the importance of considering sun glare when determining the need for crossing guards.
The Ukrainian community, along with safety advocates, has expressed support for these proposed measures, emphasizing the critical need to prioritize pedestrian safety in the city. Despite the driver being sentenced to house arrest for failing to stop after the accident, many feel that more comprehensive safety initiatives are essential to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Transport Québec and the City of Montreal have acknowledged the importance of implementing the coroner’s recommendations and ensuring the safety of all road users. However, some critics, such as Jean-François Gagné from the group “Pas une mort de plus,” have criticized the government for what they perceive as a lack of progress in enhancing safety measures, particularly in school zones.
As the community continues to honor Mariia’s memory and advocate for safer streets, the call for improved pedestrian safety measures resonates with residents and officials alike.
