An online fundraiser has been set up for the family of a 25-year-old woman killed when a car being driven in Toronto’s east end plunged into Lake Ontario last Sunday.
“It is with great sadness that we share the sudden and tragic loss of our dear friend, Agnesa Shukulli,” wrote Kristian Pasku, who is organizing a GoFundMe page on behalf of a family member.
According to the fundraiser, Shukulli moved to Canada from Albania in November 2021 to join her sister, Anxhela, create a better life for herself, and help her parents back home.
“Agnesa was a kind and beautiful soul who touched the hearts of everyone she met,” Pasku continued. “She was a loving daughter, a caring sister, and a friend who made everyone feel special. Her smile could light up a room, and her warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to know her.”
The fundraiser was set up earlier this week to help ease the financial burden the family is facing. As of Friday afternoon, nearly $81,000 has been raised.
“Agnesa’s loss is devastating, not just to her family but to everyone who knew her. Her family is now facing the heartbreaking reality of saying goodbye to someone they loved so much,” Pasku shared.
“Along with their grief, they are dealing with the financial challenge of bringing Agnesa back to Albania so she can be laid to rest in her homeland. We are reaching out to anyone who knew Agnesa, or even those who didn’t but want to help a family in need during this incredibly difficult time.”
On Monday, Toronto Police charged a 23-year-old man following her death.
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According to police, officers responded to a call Sunday at approximately 9:30 p.m. for a vehicle that plunged into the lake at Ashbridges Bay Park.
A man and a woman were in a vehicle when it entered the water, police said. The male driver was able to escape from the vehicle, but the female was trapped inside.
Police said officers entered the water and, with assistance from the Marine Unit, were able to extract the woman and transport her to hospital with life-threatening injuries.
She later died in hospital.
Kristjan Serraj, of Oakville, is charged with dangerous operation causing death.