Taylor Renwick, 20, died in crash on way home for Thanksgiving
UManitoba student was heading home for Thanksgiving at time of fatal collision
"Taylor loved what she loved with all her heart," Renwick's sister Danielle Lewis said. "She loved her family, her friends and her pets — Kozmo, her dog. Prior to her death, Taylor was on her way home for Thanksgiving and was so looking forward to some quality family time."
RCMP said a 27-year-old Winnipeg driver slammed into Renwick's vehicle on Highway 2 over the weekend, about two kilometres east of St. Claude, Man.
Lewis said her sister loved hockey and was studying athletic therapy at the University of Manitoba. She was living in an apartment in Winnipeg and would've turned 21 in a few months, Lewis added.
"Taylor was a shooting star that burned bright but unfortunately far too fast," Lewis said. "Over the last couple of days we have been very blessed with so many memories and kind words about Taylor by all of those who knew her."
Police chase
RCMP say prior to the crash, police were pursuing the 27-year-old man's vehicle after reports of a suspected impaired driver in Notre Dame, Man., at 11 p.m.
Police found the driver at a gas station in St. Claude. The suspect sped off once RCMP tried to stop the vehicle. RCMP say they eventually called off the chase because the driver was travelling at excessive speeds.
Shortly thereafter, the driver hit Renwick's vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The 27-year-old driving the other vehicle was air-lifted to hospital in critical condition.
Lewis said she has been considering whether her sister's life would've been saved had the chase not been abandoned.
"We have been assured that there are people looking into the conduct of the police," said Lewis. "If it's a matter of a law that we have that if they are going so fast they have to stop, maybe that needs to change."
The Independent Investigation Unit (IIU) of Manitoba has been notified of the crash. The Police Services Act requires the IIU to be notified when "the death of a person may have resulted from the actions of a police officer."
RCMP haven't confirmed whether the man was intoxicated at the time of the crash, but Lewis said her family hopes Renwick's death reminds people of the risks of drinking and driving.
"Taylor changed lives. She made everyone better and brighter," said Lewis. "She always did what she wanted while still managing to put everyone first. She was brave, humble, kind and most of all she loved and was loved.
"We encourage everyone to live like Taylor. Love each other. Be thankful for the people in your lives. Love everything deeply, without waver. Be kind. Live life to the fullest. Always eat dessert. Strive to be your best. Never be afraid to sing and dance it out and always be yourself."