Thousands raised for daughter of slain armoured guard

Brian Ilesic, shown in an undated photo.

More than $20,000 has been raised to help support the daughter of an armoured guard who was shot and killed in June.

Family and friends of Brian Ilesic came together Friday night in St. Albert for an event called “Brian’s Promise,” to help raise money for his 12-year-old daughter Kiannah.

Ilesic was one of three G4S armoured car guards killed at HUB Mall on the University of Alberta Campus in June.

Organizers said Saturday that roughly $24,000 had been raised for Ilesic’s daughter and that number was expected to grow as more donations come in.

The goal had been $15,000, so organizers said they are thrilled that they had surpassed that amount.

Ilesic’s brothers Greg and Keith said Friday that their brother was a big-hearted person with an infectious smile.

As the family comes to terms with losing Ilesic, they say their main concern is over Kiannah’s well-being and her future.

“It’s been really hard for her,” Greg said.

“Due to the people she’s surrounded by and love from everybody, it helps. She’s being as strong as she can be.”

“We decided maybe we should do something to continue Brian’s legacy, living what Brian would have done,” Keith said.

The brothers say with donations made to fulfill “Brian’s Promise,” Kiannah’s wishes and dreams can be carried on.

Ilesic, 35, along with Michelle Shegelski, 26 and Eddie Rejano, 39, were all killed in the armed robbery and fatal shooting on June 15. A fourth guard, Matthew Schuman, 26, survived and is recovering in hospital.

Their co-worker Travis Baumgartner has been arrested and facing a number of charges including murder and attempted murder in connection to the shooting and robbery.

Donations for Kiannah can be made at any Scotiabank branch, under the Kiannah Ilesic Trust Fund, with the account number 80549 0427683.