The government of British Columbia is exploring measures to take a stricter stance on drivers involved in fatal accidents following a conversation between the premier and the family of a 12-year-old who tragically lost his life on Vancouver Island last summer.
Xavier Rasul-Jankovics was rollerblading near his home in the Cowichan Valley on August 25 when he was fatally hit by a vehicle. According to RCMP Cpl. Alex Bérubé, speed was a significant contributing factor in the incident as the 17-year-old driver of the Honda Civic lost control of the car.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the police declining to comment further. The grieving family of Rasul-Jankovics expressed frustration over the lack of information regarding the status of the driver who caused their son’s death.
The family described the incident as a tragedy rather than an accident, emphasizing the void left by Xavier’s untimely passing. Xavier, an enthusiastic hockey player aspiring to reach the NHL, was practicing with his family for upcoming tryouts on the night of the accident.
In honor of Rasul-Jankovics, a memorial hockey tournament has been organized, raising over $138,000 for scholarships in his name. The family is advocating for legislative changes, proposing “Xavier’s Law” to introduce immediate driving bans for individuals involved in fatal accidents and lifetime bans for those convicted of dangerous driving causing death.
B.C. Premier David Eby has met with the family and committed to implementing reforms. Attorney General Niki Sharma expressed the government’s dedication to exploring solutions to prevent drivers involved in fatal incidents from being allowed to drive again.
Despite calls for stricter laws, legal expert Kyla Lee cautioned that proving speeding or dangerous driving can be challenging, emphasizing the need for evidence-based legislation that respects individuals’ rights.
The family continues to mourn Xavier’s loss, hoping that positive change will emerge from their tragedy. They are determined to honor Xavier’s memory by advocating for safer roads to prevent similar heartbreak for others.