Lawyer for Calgary man accused in Boxing Day death of girl flags mental health concerns to judge

There are mental health concerns for the accused in the Boxing Day death of a nine-year-old girl, his lawyer noted Wednesday as the Calgary man made his first court appearance.

Duane Arlen John Nepoose, 30, is accused of fleeing police in a stolen minivan after robbing a pharmacy in the southwest community of Millrise around 9:30 a.m. on Dec. 26. 

After the minivan weaved through traffic while speeding, Nepoose blew through a red light and crashed into two vehicles at Macleod Trail and Southland Drive, police said.

A woman and her two daughters were taken to hospital in critical, life-threatening condition. Victoria Desjardins, 9, died in hospital. 

• Family says 9-year-old killed in Boxing Day crash was 'bubbly and energetic'

Nepoose was charged with 11 offences, including dangerous driving causing death, robbery, theft of a motor vehicle and driving without a licence.

When police announced the charges, investigators said they were looking into speed and impairment as contributing factors. 

Nepoose facing previous weapons, drug charges

Court records show Nepoose is facing several other sets of charges from earlier dates, including possession of methamphetamine, carrying a concealed weapon, mischief and five breaches of court orders. 

At his first court appearance since being charged, Nepoose's lawyer, Sam Taylor, indicated to Justice Jayme Williams that his client wanted to see the court-appointed forensic psychiatrist. 

"There are definitely concerns," said Taylor of Nepoose's psychological state. 

The case will return to court on Friday so a doctor can determine if a 30-day assessment is required. 

Older daughter released from hospital

None of the victim's family members were in court Wednesday.

The family's other daughter was released from hospital just last week, although her mother remains in urgent care with a fractured pelvis and back, according to a family friend. 

In the days after Victoria's death, the Reitmeier-Desjardins family issued a statement. 

"We are absolutely crushed by the loss of our daughter," the family wrote. 

"Victoria was loved by so many, and her loss has left a void in our hearts that can never be filled. We are completely overwhelmed with grief and utterly devastated that our family will forever be incomplete."