'Beautiful, courageous' woman and two dogs named after being killed while walking in Highlands collision

A woman who was killed in a collision in the Highlands while walking her two dogs has been described as a “smart, beautiful, courageous” adventurer who loved the outdoors.

Emilie Anne Parker, who had moved to Scotland from the United States just three months before the crash, died after being hit by a car on the B9152 near Aviemore on October 11.

Emilie Anne Parker, with her two dogs Roo and Carver. Picture: Police Scotland | Police Scotland

The 30-year-old was walking with her two huskies - Roo, a black-and-white male, and Carver, a tan-coloured female - at the time of the incident. Both pets also died at the scene.

In a statement released via Police Scotland on Tuesday, Ms Parker’s family said: “We are so devastated by the tragic loss of Emilie and her beloved dogs, Roo and Carver.

“Emilie moved with her dogs to Dundee from Colorado, USA, in July of this year, to pursue her Masters in social work at the University of Dundee, with which she dreamed to help serve the underserved communities of the world.

“Emilie was a smart, beautiful, courageous 30-year-old woman, who was taken from us far too soon. She was a passionate adventurer who loved the outdoors.

Emilie Anne Parker | Police Scotland

“You could find her with her pups, biking, hiking, rafting, skiing, dog sledding or crafting whenever she wasn’t working or studying. She was an amazing sister, daughter, granddaughter, niece, dog mom and friend to so many who are going miss her so deeply.

“The world lost an amazing person and her loss is felt by so many who loved her. Rest in peace Emilie and we will meet again in another life.”

The incident happened around 9.45pm near the Granish junction and involved a grey Peugeot 207. The driver of the car, a 20-year-old man, was not injured.

Left to right: Carver and Roo were both killed in the incident | Police Scotland

The road had been closed overnight following the incident.

Sergeant Calum MacAulay said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of Emilie. They have asked for privacy at what is a very difficult time.

“Our enquiries continue to establish the full circumstances and anyone who can assist and has not already spoken to officers should call us on 101, quoting incident number 3786 of Friday, October 11, 2024.”