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U-Haul Killer's Sentencing: Brutal Crime's Aftermath
23 Oct
Summary
- Man found guilty of killing woman, injuring officer while fleeing police.
- Victim's family shares deep grief and ongoing trauma from the incident.
- Officer victim faces PTSD, uncertain future in RCMP career.
The sentencing hearing for Peter Ashby, who caused a fatal U-Haul incident while fleeing police, took place recently. Ashby was previously convicted of dangerous driving causing death, dangerous driving causing bodily harm, flight from police, and assaulting an officer. He also stole a car with a child inside during the incident.
In February 2024, Kassandra Gartner was killed after being struck by Ashby's U-Haul. She had exited her vehicle to check a tire after encountering a police spike belt. Ashby's vehicle then collided head-on with another car before he stole a different vehicle containing a child.
Victim impact statements presented on Wednesday detailed the lasting devastation. Gartner's mother spoke of persistent sleep issues and sorrow for her daughters. Her sister described enduring trauma and how reminders of the event trigger panic attacks.
The officer injured in the crash recounted a month-long hospital stay, multiple surgeries, and extensive rehabilitation. He now suffers from PTSD and anxiety, uncertain if he can return to his RCMP duties. The Crown seeks a 15-year sentence, citing Ashby's severe offenses and criminal history. The defense argues for seven years, attributing Ashby's actions to untreated ADHD. A sentencing decision is anticipated next month.
