Police call it a tragic accident, and it’s shaken a small Polk County community.
It happened around 8:15 p.m. Monday evening on Berkley Road. Auburndale Police said they found two adult women who had been hit by a silver Toyota Camry, driven by a 17-year-old female driver from Winter Haven.
The victims were identified as 34-year-old Judy Metellus-Pradel and 43-year-old Rosamunda Marcel.
Police said it was dark, and they believe the two women unknowingly stepped in front of the vehicle trying to cross to get to the Walmart.
Both women died at the scene.
“My mom, she’s a very caring person. That’s the one thing I would say about my mom. My mom would give anything,” Marcel’s daughter Nephtaly Jean-Pierre said.
Both women leave behind young children. Jean-Pierre says she hopes to raise her two younger siblings in the wake of the tragedy.
“My goal is to take care of them. That is the only goal in my head is to take care of them and be together with them, because I know that’s what my mom wants,” Jean-Pierre said.
Police said the teen driver stopped and remained at the scene. Chief Ray said based on reconstruction and witness statements, they do not believe distraction or excessive speed were factors. No charges have been filed.
The grieving families said they do not blame the driver, but they are calling for changes to the busy road.
Auburndale Police Chief said he would be working with officials to discuss possible improvements including a crosswalk and better lighting.
