Widower tells teen driver he hopes he finds love like theirs

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 06:05 · Archive

The widower of a Brisbane grandmother killed in a carjacking crash has told the 18-year-old driver he hopes he experiences the same love they shared.

Rosemary Franzidis, 69, a Brisbane grandmother, died when her car was struck by a stolen vehicle on Dohles Rocks Road at Murrumba Downs at about 9.45am on 7 November 2024. The driver, who was 16 at the time, is now 18 and cannot be named under Queensland law.

The young man pleaded guilty before Brisbane Supreme Court to one count each of manslaughter, dangerous operation of a vehicle, aggravated attempted robbery, negligent acts causing harm, and operating a vehicle dangerously whilst excessively speeding, alongside two counts of aggravated unlawful entry of a vehicle.

Ms Franzidis's widower Jean-Paul Franzidis and their daughter Alexia addressed the court with impact statements. Alexia described her mother as 'kind, generous and full of love' and said the family had lost her 'violently and unexpectedly' with 'no time for final conversations or goodbyes'. She noted that her mother had loved spending time with her children and grandchildren and should have been present to watch them grow and achieve their goals.

Mr Franzidis spoke directly to the teenager, expressing his wish that the boy would one day experience the same love he and his wife had shared during their 50 years together.

How it is being reported

• Heartbroken widower faces teen driver in court over fatal Murrumba Downs carjacking crashThe widower of a woman killed by a boy in a high-speed carjacking spree has expressed his gracious wish for the teen.The West Australian · 14 Oct, 05:26
• Heartbroken widower faces teen driver in court over fatal Murrumba Downs carjacking crashThe widower of a woman killed by a boy in a high-speed carjacking spree has expressed his gracious wish for the teen.Perth Now · 14 Oct, 05:26

In this story: Rosemary Franzidis · Jean-Paul Franzidis · Alexia Franzidis · Murrumba Downs · Brisbane Supreme Court · Queensland

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem