What we all know:
Pinellas County – Legislation enforcement companies throughout Pinellas County, together with the Sheriff’s Workplace, Florida Freeway Patrol, and police departments from St. Pete, Clearwater, Largo, Pinellas Park, and Tarpon Springs joined forces in a “DUI Wolfpack” operation.
The ten-hour occasion started Saturday at 7 p.m. and ran by means of 5 a.m. The aim: crack down on impaired drivers close to the county’s busiest roads whereas honoring the reminiscence of 4 males killed in a DUI crash in 2010.
The backstory:
On July 31, 2010, 19-year-old Kelly McConnell, his father Elroy, and his half-brothers Nathan and Roy have been killed when an impaired driver ran a purple mild at 80 miles per hour in St. Pete.
The McConnell household was on the town for a reunion. Roy had simply welcomed a child boy months earlier. For his or her grandmother, Patricia Voelker, the ache continues to be uncooked. She stated, “It’s been 15 years and I cease generally and I feel, ‘How previous would Kelly be now? Would he be married? Would he have youngsters?’” she informed FOX 13.
What they’re saying:
Cousin Ginger Brengle stated their story continues to function a reminder that DUI tragedies can strike anybody.”Let individuals know that this isn’t one thing that simply occurs to another person. It could possibly occur to you too,” she stated.
Each Voelker and Brengle have turned their grief into activism. Voelker helps lead “Stroll Like MADD” occasions in South Carolina, whereas Brengle speaks in native driver’s training lessons. She additionally organizes thank-you playing cards and goodie luggage for officers who take part in DUI Wolfpack operations. “It’s irritating to me that it’s been 15 years and we’re nonetheless having to do that,” Brengle stated.
What’s subsequent:
This weekend’s DUI Wolfpack will finish at 5 a.m. Sunday. Households just like the McConnells hope it prevents others from experiencing the identical loss they’ve carried for 15 years. Keep on with FOX 13 to be taught the outcomes.
The Supply: This story relies on FOX 13’s Jennifer Kveglis’ reporting, together with interviews with relations Patricia Voelker and Ginger Brengle, in addition to data from collaborating Pinellas County regulation enforcement companies.
