Husband of Murrumba Downs crash victim Rosemary Franzidis makes surprising call after wife allegedly killed by teen driver
The husband of an adored Queensland grandmother killed in a crash on Thursday says she will be praying for the boy who has been charged over her death.
Rosemary Franzidis, 69, was driving a Toyota Corolla in Murrumba Downs, north of Brisbane when her car was allegedly smashed into by an Audi stolen earlier at gunpoint.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Family of Rosemary Franzidis speaks out.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.She had attended a church mass in Bracken Ridge and was just minutes from home when the high-impact collision occurred.
The alleged driver of the Audi, a 16-year-old Caboolture boy, was taken into custody at the scene and is facing a string of charges, including manslaughter.
Franzidis’ husband Jean-Paul Franzidis said his wife always saw the good in everyone, and this time would be no exception.
“I know that a lot of people are angry. You know, at the moment, I can’t get angry,” he told 7NEWS.
“I know that Rose would be praying for that guy right now and all the other kids like him who need to be out of that situation.”
The couple, married for almost 50 years, had been planning their dream holiday to Greece.
“We were planning to go there for her 70th birthday next April but that’s not to be,” Franzidis said.
A GoFundMe has been launched to support Jean-Paul and his family with funeral expenses.
“They’ve been pillars of our community for years, always there to lend a hand, support others through tough times and spread kindness,” the campaign organisers said.
“Even now they are hesitant to ask for help, as they’ve always given so selflessly to others.
“They have three beautiful daughters and three precious grandchildren who will need the love and support of their community as they navigate life without their beloved mother and granny.”
By Monday night, more than $7000 had been donated and the family said they had been overwhelmed with the love and support from strangers.
A 35-year-old woman has also fronted court in connection to the crash.
Police allege she threatened a woman with what appeared to be a stolen gun before fleeing in a Holden Barina.
Police claim the car was used to drive the 16-year-old boy to steal the Audi prior to the fatal crash.
The woman did not apply for bail on Monday and will front court again on Wednesday.
Originally published on 7NEWS
