Central Fla. family demands changes after crash

Mother hopes to bring end to texting-and-driving after losing son to distracted driver

MELBOURNE, Fla. – A mom who lost her son to a distracted driver one year ago Tuesday wants to keep his memory alive so others don't text and drive.

Patricia Viccaro's son, Garrett Viccaro, and his friend were killed while fishing on the Eau Gallie Causeway in Melbourne after a driver swerved and hit them.

"I wish my baby was here," Patricia Viccaro told Local 6. "It's very hard. My heart is totally pulled apart. It's a big hole."

Family and friends gathered Tuesday night for a memorial and beach bonfire at Pelican Beach Park, many wearing green -- his favorite color.

Last April, Vincent Worbington was looking down at his cellphone as he crossed the causeway and veered onto the shoulder, running over and killing 25-year-old Garrett Viccaro and his friend, while also severely injuring another fisherman.

Worbington was charged with careless driving, had to pay a $1,000 fine and serve 120 hours of community service.

"If he's sincerely remorseful, he should be out talking at schools at awareness programs, just like I'm trying to do," said Patricia Viccaro.

That has been Patricia Viccaro's mission since her son's death, trying to save lives and bring awareness to texting and driving.

"I'm hoping the Eau Gallie bridge is safe for fishing or there won't be fishing on that side of the bridge," said Patricia Viccaro.

Garrett Viccaro's ex-girlfriend, Kendra Cerasale, said his death has changed her attitude about texting and driving.

"Sometimes I'll catch myself picking up the phone and I'm like, 'I can't, I lost a loved one,'" said Cerasale. "I hope it can make a difference."

Garrett Viccaro would have celebrated his 26th birthday Thursday.


Recommended Videos