SARASOTA, FL – A routine walk turned into a devastating tragedy for a Sarasota family when a hit-and-run incident claimed the lives of two young children and left their mother in a coma. The driver, a 72-year-old woman, faced a judge shortly after her arrest, deepening the grief felt by the family and community.
The crash occurred on February 10, when 29-year-old Taylor Bennett was crossing the road with her two sons, 2-year-old Rio and 5-month-old Kylin. A memorial now stands at the site where the children were struck, serving as a poignant reminder of the lives lost. Candace McCormick, the children’s great-grandmother, traveled from Ohio to support the grieving father, Donzel Gallagher. “They need a lot of support,” she said, expressing the family’s profound loss.
The driver, June Fenton, appeared in court with little visible emotion. According to the state attorney’s office, Fenton, a retired hospice worker, was feeding stray cats before the accident. She reportedly thought she had hit a dog and drove away from the scene. Her defense attorney, Derrick Bird, stated Fenton was unaware that she had struck Bennett and her children.
The tragedy has left the family grappling with anger and disbelief. “How dare you take my grandkids away from me,” McCormick lamented, reflecting the deep sorrow and anger felt by the family members. The judge set Fenton’s bond at $650,000 and imposed strict conditions, including a driving ban and the requirement to wear a GPS ankle monitor if she posts bail.
The community is left to question how such an incident could occur, as the family seeks answers and justice for the loss of their loved ones. Fenton’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 4, where further details of the case may be revealed.
As the investigation continues, the family and community mourn the irreplaceable loss of two young lives, while seeking solace and support from each other during this difficult time.