New immigrant, 24-year-old filipina hit by car, dies in canada hospital

Jillian Lammatao, 24-year-old, was struck by a car at the intersection of Sargent Avenue and Simcoe Street in the afternoon of August 1, a day before her 24th birthday. She was critically injured and fell into a coma. Sadly, she passed away on Tuesday, August 6.

A group of more than a hundred people joined the Lammatao family on Wednesday night for a vigil in honour of Jillian at the grassy area beside a playground across the street from the crosswalk. It was organized by the Filipino watch group, 204 Neighbourhood Watch. That night was filled with prayers, songs and loving stories shared by several of Lammatao’s friends.

Jillian emigrated in Canada back in 2017 together with her older sister, Nicole, to reunite with their mother. She was a creative and hard-working person. Even as a newcomer, she was able to pursue photography as her passion while she worked at Tim Hortons and Max’s Restaurant.

Although her time in Canada was short, she made a lot of friends here and touched a number of people. Her loving family and friends remember her as a sweet and thoughtful friend, lover, sister, and daughter.

The family was truly overwhelmed with the huge turnout. Some members of Winnipeg’s Indigenous community living in the area came to the vigil as well. Jillian’s mother spoke for a moment and repeatedly expressed her gratitude for the support from the whole community. Jillian’s aunt, who came from the United States to help out, thanked the community as well.

It was a perfect gathering to remember a beautiful soul. They ended the vigil with the act of laying flowers  at the base of the crosswalk pole where Jillian had pressed the button to cross the street. May her soul rest in peace.

As for the investigation of the case, the Winnipeg Police Service has identified the driver of the vehicle that hit Jillian. The 89-year-old man was arrested at the scene and may face charges depending on the outcome of the investigation.

With the help of the surveillance video of the incident that circulated in social media, the Police may be able to speed up the process. However, they are still asking for witnesses to come forward to help with the investigation.