Influencer Tragedy

Who wants to be a social media influencer? It seems many people would raise their hand and say, “I do, I do.” Some influencer hopefuls will even risk their life for a like and a share.

The 17-year-old had his social media name on his car. His thing was to drive super-fast—at speeds over 100 mph—on public roadways and record himself while speeding along so he could share it on social media. He often offered cash prizes to whoever correctly guessed his speed—reportedly paying out over $100,000 in cash prizes.

Investigators found social media videos showing the teen had recorded himself driving 182 mph. Because his fancy sports car had a “Driver Package” it was factory limited to go no faster than 190 mph. Who needs to go that fast?!

His social media influencer dare-devil video recording came to a tragic end when he rear-ended a vehicle with six people inside. Because of his speed, his car almost plowed straight through the car he hit. The impact killed five passengers at the scene. One survived the crash but later died at the hospital. The teen injured his ankle.

After the accident, while he awaited his trial, he was on house arrest wearing an ankle monitor. His attorney requested permission for his client to travel outside the state for medical reasons. The judge denied the request.

Rather than go to trial for six counts of vehicular homicide, he pleaded guilty to six counts of vehicular homicide and received a reduced sentence.

A judge sentenced the young man to 12 years in prison. They may release him after serving ten years. Upon his release, the sentence requires him to complete 800 hours of community service, complete a 12-hour driving course, and attend a panel where crash victims share their stories.

The length of the sentence disappointed some family members. A state attorney associated with the case said,

“What is the proper sentence in a case like this? No amount of prison time will bring the victims back to their families.”

Source: Florida State Attorney Office, PBC Sheriff’s Office, Road & Track, People, Law & Crime, CBS 12 News

All data and information provided is for information and research purposes only and not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, or individual. Criminal cases may have been appealed or verdicts overturned since I researched the case. All information is provided on an as-is basis.