A 35-year-old woman has been charged with armed robbery following a fatal crash that killed 69-year-old Rosemary Franzidis in Queensland.
Franzidis died in a collision at Murrumba Downs in Moreton Bay on Thursday morning, November 7. Later that day, a 16-year-old boy was charged with manslaughter in connection to the incident.
“Rosemary Franzidis was a much-loved wife, mother, and grandmother, who cherished her family more than anything in the world,” her family said in a statement.
“A woman of strong faith, she had many church friends who will remember her fondly… Everybody who met Rose felt her love, kindness and generosity.”
“She will be extremely missed by friends and family in South Africa, United Kingdom, Australia and the USA… She is survived by her husband of nearly 50 years, three daughters, and three beautiful grandchildren.
“We request privacy at this time; we will not be doing any interviews or further media statements.”
The 35-year-old woman, from Caboolture, was charged on Sunday with two counts of attempted armed robbery in company, armed robbery, and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. Police allege that, in the hours leading up to the fatal crash, she threatened a woman with a weapon, assaulted her, and attempted to steal her car, but was interrupted by bystanders.
Shortly after, police allege the woman and the 16-year-old boy were together in a stolen vehicle when they threatened another woman with a gun and tried to steal her handbag. The attempt was foiled by nearby witnesses. At around 9:30am, the 16-year-old allegedly stole a blue Audi from Dohles Rocks Road, which was involved in the crash minutes later, resulting in Franzidis’ death.
The woman is scheduled to appear in Caboolture Magistrates Court today, November 11. The 16-year-old’s case has been adjourned until December.
