‘He didn’t deserve it’: Montreal family speaks out after man killed in Jan. 1 tragedy

Matthew Sotos cherished the last text he received from his cousin Michael Chintakis before his tragic death. The text was a typical New Year wish expressing love, health, and prosperity to which Sotos replied "See you at the party". Shortly after, Chintakis was hit and killed by a car while crossing the street on his way to a New Year’s Eve celebration. A troubled Sotos upon hearing the news rushed to the accident spot. In the unfortunate incident, 30-year old Augustin Wesley Katimba who was returning home from church also lost his life. Montreal police arrested 23-year-old Antoine Dubuc for allegedly driving dangerously at high speed and then fleeing the scene. Currently, he faces six charges related to the accident.

Chintakis' cousin, Natacha Papadakis, emotionally commented that although he was a cousin, he was more like a brother and her safety blanket. Adding to this, many of his cousins stated that he was a kind soul and everyone loved him, he was their brother. Francis Di Ioia another cousin of Chintakis remembered him for always being prepared to extend a helping hand. His sudden loss left everyone saying it was a tragic waste, and he didn’t deserve this.

The bereaved family has been receiving comforting messages and substantial donations. A fundraiser for the family quickly accrued over $20,000 in just 24 hours. Luciano Ciccone, a close friend of Michael's lauded the heartwarming donations and confirmed that they would go a long way in giving Michael the send-off he deserves and support his family. The family also plans to donate money exceeding the $20,000 target and provide aid to the family of Katimba, the other victim, as they believe, that’s what Michael would have wanted.