A tragic incident unfolded on January 27, 2025, when 21-year-old Alexandria Wortman was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Veterans Memorial Lane and Robie Street in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This collision has not only claimed the life of the university student but also sparked numerous reactions from her community, highlighting her compassionate spirit and advocacy for social justice.
Wortman, originally from Moncton, New Brunswick, had relocated to Halifax for her studies, attending the University of King’s College before transferring to Dalhousie University. A dedicated student poised to receive her bachelor of arts degree this spring, she was remembered not just for her academic pursuits but for her big heart and activism. Wortman’s obituary notes, "She abhorred social injustice or inequity and passionately supported and defended any marginalized, under-privileged or at-risk group or individual." This sentiment reflects the values she held dear and the legacy she leaves behind.
On the evening of the accident, at approximately 5:47 p.m., Wortman was crossing the street when she was struck by the vehicle driven by 32-year-old Deepak Sharma. Prior to hitting Wortman, Sharma's vehicle was involved in another collision with another car. Following the initial impact, he fled the scene and continued driving until he struck Wortman, who was at a marked crosswalk, before finally crashing his vehicle against two parked cars nearby. The Rapid response from the Halifax Regional Police led to his arrest at the scene.
Sharma was charged with several serious offenses, including dangerous driving causing death, impaired driving causing death, failing to remain at the scene of the accident, and failing to stop at the scene of the accident resulting in death. He appeared before Halifax provincial court on Friday, where his duty defense lawyer Bernie Thibault told the court, "We’re currently working out pieces of a (release) plan..." indicating their intention to seek bail. The hearing was adjourned until the following week, allowing Sharma to remain in custody through the weekend as they worked on this release plan.
Wortman’s untimely death has shaken her academic communities at both universities. A joint statement from King’s and Dalhousie expressed their sorrow and recognized Wortman’s contributions, stating they would honor her memory by lowering their flags to half-mast on February 12, which would have marked her 22nd birthday.
Her friends and peers have echoed the sentiments laid out in her obituary, emphasizing her advocacy, compassion, and desire to effect positive change. Many have shared their memories of Wortman, portraying her as not only someone who fiercely defended human rights but also someone who had plans to pursue teaching, particularly loving her time working with children at the YMCA.
This tragic event highlights the dangers pedestrians face and serves as a reminder of the impact of impaired driving. Wortman is survived by her parents, brother, and three grandparents, who will gather to celebrate her life on February 22 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Cobb’s Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, located at 330 Whitepine Rd., Riverview.
Wortman’s loss is not just felt by her family and friends but resonates throughout the Halifax community, where her contributions, enthusiasm, and spirit of advocacy for social justice will remain remarkable and impactful.