Memorial service held Tuesday night for Ukrainian girl killed in hit-and-run
Posted December 20, 2022 10:05 pm.
Last Updated December 21, 2022 2:49 pm.
A memorial was held in Montreal on Tuesday night for 7-year-old Mariia Legenkovska — the Ukrainian girl killed in a hit-and-run while she was walking to school with her siblings.
Mariia and her family came to Montreal fleeing the Russian invasion just two months ago.
Mariia’s mother spoke to the media before the service, saying how touched she was by the outpouring of support by Montrealers.
“My heart is broken by this loss, it is impossible to describe it with words only. Today, I use the incredible warmth and support given to me by Canadians,” said Galyna Legenkovska, Mother of Mariia, in French.
“The community’s in shock and disbelief at what actually happened,” said Michael Shwec, President of the Montreal chapter of the Canadian Ukrainian Congress. “It’s unfortunate that coming to Montreal, looking for a peaceful place to live. That’s such a tragedy happened.”
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The Memorial is an important step, says Simon Kouklewsky, a Parish member of the Saint Sophie Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral. “We’re praying for her soul.”
“We pray. We call it a celebration, in fact, because we’re celebrating her new life in heaven the day that she died here, she was born in heaven,” said Kouklewsky.
Mariia’s Father — who was fighting in Ukraine against the Russian invasion — was granted leave and able to come to Montreal.
Mariia’s Funeral will be held Wednesday at 10am.
