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Northview Grad Involved In Accident That Killed Two Pedestrians
February 28, 2009
More details have emerged about an accident involving a Northview graduate that killed two pedestrians in Cantonment.
The Florida Highway Patrol says a vehicle driven by Matthew Thomas Zisa, 18, of McDavid, was traveling northbound on County Road 95A near Countri Lane and was passing northbound traffic when he failed to notice six pedestrians walking northbound in the southbound lane of the road. Zisa’s 2003 Chevrolet struck three of the pedestrians, killing two of them.
The FHP says Rachel L. Welford, 16 and Jeremy Lee Shipley, 24, sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Johnathan M. Kane, 20, was seriously injured and was transported to Sacred Heart Hospital by LifeFlight. He has since been released from the hospital
Grief counselors were on campus Friday at Tate to help the students deal with the loss of Welford.
Welford; Shipley; Kane; Jeremy Davidson, 19; Rachel’s sister Jennifer Welford, 15; and Micah Orr, 18, were walking from a home on El Camino Drive to the nearby Tom Thumb that sits between Highway 95A and Highway 29 when they were struck from behind.
“These people behind me were driving crazy,” witness John Middleton told WEAR-TV. “I was going about the speed limit. They tried to pass me, so I sped up a little bit. They fell back behind me. Then they come around me one more time, and that’s when the accident happened.”
Members of the group said Friday that they never saw Zisa’s headlights, never heard a horn, and never heard tires squealing. They said they were just walking toward the store, and, the next thing they knew, three members of the group were hit by Zisa’s Chevrolet Blazer.
Troopers say charges are pending against Zisa, a 2008 graduate of Northview High School. He was not injured in the accident.
The accident is still under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.
Pictured top: Matthew Zisa’s Chevrolet Blazer is seen is this photo. (Courtesy WEAR-TV) Pictured inset: Rachel Welford was killed in a Thursday night crash in Cantonment. Her boyfriend, Jonathan Kane (left) was seriously injured. Submitted photo.
Comments
92 Responses to “Northview Grad Involved In Accident That Killed Two Pedestrians”
Comments on this article are now closed. I think everyone has tried to say everything that could be said. We will continue to follow this story, and we will post any new developments.
These people behind me were driving crazy,” witness John Middleton told WEAR-TV. “I was going about the speed limit. They tried to pass me, so I sped up a little bit. They fell back behind me. Then they come around me one more time, and that’s when the accident happened.”
“just me”
Do people normally speed up a “little bit” when someones trying to pass them?
They tried to pass me so I sped up?
they come around me one more time, and that’s when the accident happened?
But yet he didn’t know there was an accident?
In my opinion, the only thing believable in all this is that Matthew had zero time to react, to avoid those people.
But something is just not adding up, time will tell, lets let the professional investigators do their jobs, and in the end the truth will be known.
Observer,
Yes, I was not there but I can tell you that the driver is my baby brother, and he is tormented with guilt over this tragic horrific event that has changed so many lives permanetly…. As for anger issuses I have none WHATSOEVER!!!!!! The families involved in this need to deal with the aftermath in peace!!!!!! People need to stop blaming and finger pointing nothing is going to fix this nightmare that has been cast upon everyone dealing with this… I have a teenage son and I could never imagine enduring this kind of sorrow. PLEASE LET THESE FAMILIES GRIEVE AND COPE IN PEACE!!!!!! GOD BLESS….. NO ONE IS BLAMING ANYONE, IT WAS LIKE A DOMINO EFFECT…… P.S. DID J.MIDDLETON ENJOY HIS 15 MINUTES OF FAME???????
Observer,
I was not there but the driver is my baby brother who is beside himself with guilt because of this tragic horrific event, so I know for first hand on this side of how bad this is hurting my family.. I have NO ANGER ISSUES whatsoever.. Nothing on either side has come out good for anyone.. I think people need to let the families on both ends of this COPE IN PEACE…… Blaming, what if’s can’t undo the damage that has been cast upon everyone involved here… I have a teenage son as well and I could not ever imagine enduring this kind of sorrow.. I just personally believe pointing fingers is not going to fix anything.. PLEASE LET THE FAMILIES HAVE PEACE, I PRAY FOR EVERYONE…. GOD BLESS!!!!!
It has not been proven that anybody was playing “road games”.
There IS no curfew in Escambia County. There used to be, but it was lifted.
It IS a law that you are to walk ON THE SHOULDER, not in the lane that traffic is to use, facing oncoming traffic. They WERE facing oncoming traffic, but they were IN THE ROAD. Any of us could have hit them.
John did NOT openly brag to speeding up to keep Matt from passing him. He said he “sped up a little bit”. There IS a difference.
BTW, John said that he “saw the lights behind me”. That is NOT saying that he saw the accident. He went to his house because he didn’t have a cell phone to call anyone with.
All this arguing does not change the fact that many lives were shattered that night. The families involved are trying to pick up the pieces. There is enough self blame going around without us adding to it.
If you wish to offer your condolences, please do so. If you wish to slander those involved (a violation of Rule #1 and Rule #3 for commenting here), please go elsewhere.
Moderators for this site,
Please see that your own rules are enforced.
Jessica on March 2nd, 2009 10:32 pm It is really awful that Matt is going through this.
Ive known Matt for a good while now and he is a good guy,and anyone who has met him knows that.
It was an accident,simple.
People make mistakes.
Although two people were killed who is to say who is in the wrong?
Whether it was Matt,the Middleton guy, or EVEN the pedestrians…..were they wearing reflective clothing?
Because I know when I head home from work it’s very difficult to see people in the dark especially if they’re not being smart and taking the right procautions.
I agree with a previous comment…WHY WERE THESE KIDS OUT AT NIGHT WALKING TO THE TOM THUMB,especially the girls with the older guys?
This is a reply to Jessica! Jessica how can you sit there and put the blame on the kids who died? One of those kids was my nephew, and as far as I am concerned, the driver who hit and killed these kids are to blame. The driver made the decision to pass instead of slowing down and paying more attention, but no he was in too big of a hurry to get to where he wanted to go. Matt and that other driver was playing road games that cost the lives of two people, two people that our families will never see again. It has never been against the law to walk on or beside the road and it is not a law that kids has to be in their homes at 10:00 at night unless there is a curfew. But the law does state that all drivers must at all times yeild to pedestrians, no matter what state you live in it is the LAW! It does not matter that Matt was a good kid or just a great guy, the truth of the matter is two people was playing road games the their cars and the results is two pedestrians died!!! So you should not blame the pedestrians you should however blame the drivers for their stupid mistakes!!!!!!
Carriebear,
You seem to be the one with anger issues here because we all don’t see it your way. It’s obvious by your “capital letter yelling”. Take a deep breath and stop placing blame. Like you said you were not there. This is not a perfect world we live in and we must accept these trials and tribulations as facts of life. Peace be with ALL the vicim’s families.
Someone once said “When saddled to a dead horse, its best to get off”.
okay people this is horrific..but people have to realize an accident is just that an accident..i know matt have since he was about 10yrs BUT he is a descent intelligent kid that has probably died inside himself for this..it sounds like people need to get a grip and realize no matter how hurt or angry you are nothing is going to bring those babies back..i am sure that matt didnt do this on purpose.accidents happen thats why they are called accidents. and it does sound like the guy he was trying to pass was taunting him a little, it does happen..GOD be with you all …i will pray that you all can find peace.
FOR GOD’S SAKE PLEASE ALLOW THESE PEOPLE TO HAVE PEACE! NO MORE THEY DID THIS, HE SAW THAT, ALL THE SHOULD OF, COULD OF IS NOT GOING TO CHANGE ANY OF WHAT OCCURED ON 2-26-2009. PLEASE LET THE FAMILIES OF BOTH SIDES GET PAST THIS IN PEACE!!!!!!!
Just Me,
I have watched the news clip of J.Middleton and he openly admitts to seeing the accident and supposedly going home to call 911, see for yourself on WEARTV3. I appreciate your kind words for ALL INVLOVED but the fact remains so many lives are forever changed.. Perhaps GOD can make sense of this horrific event, for the ones left behind to deal with the aftermath…. To me it seems like J.Middleton was trying to play “road jesus” or something… He doesn’t have the vision permantly imbeded into his brain of three people slamming off of his vehicle and he is not making funeral arrangements is he??????
disgusted
Call it what you want to call it, as will others….You weren’t there and neither was I.
You aren’t the 18 year old kid that was driving the SUV, you don’t know him, but I do. I don’t know Jon Middleton, maybe you do, maybe you don’t.
But so far, on record he is the only one that has openly bragged that he kept speeding up to prevent Matthew from passing him, not just once but twice.
All this rehashing wont change anything that happened.
Middleton openly on live TV bragged, he admitted he innitiated this entire ordeal by speeding up, AND he left the scene of the accident, like it or not, those are facts.
As far as ego’s go, what can be more egotistical than going on live TV and admitting to preventing a vehicle from passing in a legal passing zone?
None of the teenagers said they saw or heard Zisa’s SUV. They said they didn’t hear a horn or squealing tires, and they did not see the vehicle’s headlights, Kane said Friday after being released from Baptist Hospital “If I’d a seen headlights, I would have snatched everyone and pushed them to side of the road,” he said. “I didn’t see anything. No headlights at all.”
http://www.pnj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2009902280322 then hit the letter arrow that says next ……
and there you find the other part of the story!!!
I am in a unique position because I know both drivers AND I knew Rachel. I’ve heard both sides of this and the problem is that NONE OF US was there and knows what really went on. Matt says John was driving crazy, John says Matt was driving crazy. We will never know the exact truth, but there is an old saying that “there are three sides to every story: yours, mine and the truth.” That usually lies somewhere in the middle.
All these accusations about Middleton “admitting” to speeding up to keep Matt from passing is not accurate. He said that he “sped up a little bit”. That’s NOT saying he tried to keep Matt from passing. That’s saying that he thought he was probably going a little too slow and he should speed up, so he did. Matt dropping back into the lane behind John could have been because of a curve in the road, another car coming, etc. We don’t know. If he had been stopping and starting in front of Matt, Matt could have always turned onto another road like Archie or cut through the funeral home parking lot instead of trying to pass. In retrospect, I’m sure he realizes that.
John also said that he didn’t know that Matt had hit anyone. If the situation happened the way I believe it did, neither of the drivers had a chance to see them. John was looking in the rearview mirror at Matt and Matt was looking at John’s car to pass it and suddenly, there they were. Matt didn’t even have a chance to hit the brakes, so obviously he didn’t see them before it happened. John went home because he really wasn’t sure what had happened, but the more he thought about it on the way home (only two miles) the more he thought he needed to go back and see what was up, so he asked someone to go with him. All he knew was that Matt’s headlights went out and didn’t come back on. At first, he thought he turned them off, but on the way home, he kept thinking that they didn’t come back on. The fact that he went back speaks to his innocence in this. There’s just no way that someone would go back to something like that if they had really had a hand in causing it. There’s no way that John would have continued on his way if he had known this had happened.
Those of you blaming him do not know him. Just as Matt isn’t “that kind of kid”, neither is John.
There’s a little bit of blame to go all around if we must find blame. Matt didn’t have to pass, John didn’t have to continue at his speed or speed up when he saw Matt attempting to pass, and the kids knew better than to be in the road at 10:00 at night on a school night. If we want to cast stones, we can do it all around, but please tell me what good any of that does? Does it bring the deceased back? NO. Does it help determine what happened? NO. Matt and John are both having a really hard time dealing with this, each second guessing every move they made that night, reliving it over and over again (and probably will continue to for the rest of their lives), without all these comments from people who don’t have a clue what really happened. It is a very tragic situation and everyone involved deserves our prayers.
Matt and John,
I hope you find some peace from this.
To the families of the deceased,
Keep your happy memories close to you and be glad for the years that you had with your loved ones. God bless you.
I drive a truck all over the country and I have seen many terrible accidents. Many of them could have been prevented just as this one could have. My heart goes out to the families of the deceased and injured, and also Matt. I have seen thousands of drivers like the one Matt was trying to pass. they create road rage and accidents all the while thinking that they are the ones making the roads safer.
The answer is exactly as I posted earlier….a battle of egos. “I’m gonna pass this guy at all costs”!!! “I’m not lettin’ this guy by me for anything”!!!!! BINGO…..cause and result. Still sad and tragic both guys were at fault.
observer
the second attempt to pass seemed as if Middleton was going to let him pass, then Middleton sped up AGAIN, as he admitted on LIVE TV…the driver of the SUV didn’t have the time to even discontinue his attempt and pull back behind Middletons vehicle…And we all know the rest of this very very tragic story.
It happened, nothing can change this fact….
The question NOT being answered is WHY didn’t Middleton just let the driver in the SUV pass the first time?
If he was so scared of the driver in front of him and wanting to get away…..since he as said he was going to try one more time to pass him, or I will turn at the Tom Thumb (just feet away, he would have had to slam on brakes to turn at the Tom Thumb) why did he not turn into the HUGE parking lot of the old Winn Dixie which is now the Call Center and tag office. There is almost ALWAYS a deputy in that parking lot nightly.
This whole tragedy has been a living HELL for EVERYONE involved on both sides!!!!!! People need to stop blaming, this is a terrible and unfortunate event that has taken place NOTHING can fix this. I have prayed for the families of the victims and will continue to do so, It says in Gods word “Those that mourn the Lord shall comfort.” This truly is a situation that has forever changed lives…As a mother of a 17yr old son I could I could never imagine the pain of losing a child. Make no mistake the driver is suffering just as much, and will so for the rest of his life. I know people are angry and full of grief, that is ok….. Hearts aching can’t begin to describe what EVERYONE on both sides of this are going through at this time.. Please accept the sorrow and condolences of my family, they are hurting just as bad.. Again I am truly and deeply sorry for what EVERYONE involved has to cope with….. GOD BLESS EVERYONE, The big Sister of the driver…
In response to Debbie M
Here is a comment made by Micah Orr, one of the pedestrians involved in this tragedy. “If I’d a seen headlights, I would have snatched everyone and pushed them to side of the road,” he said. “I didn’t see anything. No headlights at all.” ( taken from pnj,com)
J Middleton states in a live TV interview…he saw the headlights on the SUV.
As for the uncalled for comments about those kids in the road…People please have a heart and STOP saying those things…and for the people ( very few of you) calling Matthew Zisa an idiot and wishing him extreme maximum jail time, it’s understandable, you’re saying those things as a way to vent or place blame or whatever because this is a tragedy, precious children were taken that night.
Three (3) people know for certian exactly what happened and the number one person that knows is GOD….He’s the most just witness to this entire tragedy, He WILL NOT let any injustice take place in the outcome of the investigation.
My sincere condolences to Rachel and Jeremys families..
I am going to stop posting here because hardly anyone actually reads the article – and although many intelligent people post here trying to help you see the facts, you still keep your head in the sand.
I am really surprised the editor of this news doesn’t step in and ask someone to read the news they wrote when misquoted.
There was Rachel Welford was 17 and the boy she was to marry just turned 21 that day – Jon Kane. Jennifer will turn 16 in a few weeks – her boyfriend is Micah Orr. The 24 year old was not with anyone. It states this in all the news.
I am a friend of Rachels and I have been at momma Susans and momma Rhias house many times.
I explained before they were not wearing dark clothes. I explained mama susans house is very close to the Tom Thumb. I explained they were going to get drinks and chips and this many went to help pack them.
The rules in this forum is no personal attacks. Yet you all have personally attacked these kids who were killed and the suvors injured and tramitized.
Jeremrys family is in Oklahoma trying to read all the news to find out what all happened to their son and instead they see him trashed liked he was perv because he walked with the kids to the store to get stuff for Jons Birthday party.
Rachel is being buried today and her family has to read these hateful words when they check for news updates.
The injured and the survivors are reading this to see what people say because people are calling them and texting them what you say.
The 24 year olds girfriend couldn’t make it to the party so she wasn’t there that night so you all just have threw him at any minor girl in the bunch. She lost her boyfriend in yet besides feeling bad she wasn’t there, and that he died, and how he died – she now has to read in the news comments how he was the boyfriend of one or out with another.
Stop and think it if it had been your family that people are smearing. Since they can see in the news (if they really read it) that what they say is incorrect, why not just hush if you are on the drivers side. Say the driver was a good kid. No one said he planned on killing anyone. Not one person said he was a bad person. They said he passed and hit kids walking on the side of the road. That their deaths are a tragedy.. That there were acts of road rage – which is evident in the news.
“Road rage is behavior by a driver of an automobile or other motor vehicle which causes collisions or incidents on roadways. It can be thought of as an case of aggressive driving.
The following are common manifestations of road rage:
Generally aggressive driving, including sudden acceleration, braking, and close tailgating.
Cutting others off in a lane, or deliberately preventing someone from merging or passing.
Exceeding the speed limit in order to pass a vehicle that is driving slower or maintaining the speed limit.
Like I said – no one listens. They want to trash kids that were victims.
I personally will be at the walk for life on that road on March 7th. Mamarhia at least is trying to be constructive and keep it from happening again.
I suppose since none of you read the article closely – you didn’t read the rules to posting either.
Have a comment on this story?
We welcome your comments on this story, but there are some rules to follow::
(1) Be Nice. No comments that slander another, no racism, no sexism, no personal attacks.
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I am tired of seeing so many comments placing blame on the pedestrians or saying “ why were they walking there at that time of night”
My only note about this; to anyone who has commented that the pedestrians are totally at fault or even the implication of them being totally at fault, is absolutely incorrect. The very idea of this is absurd! You should research the laws and see for yourself.
First, it is not illegal to be out at any time during the night walking as long as you are not subject to a state / county or municipal Law that prohibits this, or an emergency curfew.
Second, According to the state of Florida (and every other state I have lived in) a driver always has to yield to pedestrians. This is an absolute, there is no grey area! Weather pedestrians are on the shoulder of the road, walking down the center line, or doing cartwheels in the lanes of traffic. A driver must always yield to pedestrians!
A pedestrian can be charged with jay walking (failing to use a crosswalk to cross a street; or, To cross a street illegally or in a reckless manner.) this however is a misdemeanor offense. A driver however, failing to yield to a pedestrian can be charged with a felony offense.
A Pedestrian is defined as: 1. Of, relating to, or made for pedestrians: a pedestrian bridge (foot bridge). 2. Going or performed on foot: a pedestrian journey.
Please remember that all of these comments, good or bad, will not bring back those who died. The authorities will investigate this and justice will be served. As citizens we need to have faith in our legal system. The only thing I personally see this forum doing is contaminating a potential jury pool. To the families involved, my deepest and most sincere condolences. There is nothing I can say to ease this pain or undo what has been done. May those who survived, find some way to make peace with this. Let us remember those who were called home and “rejoice” let not your heart be troubled, as they have found everlasting life in the kingdom of heaven.
It is really awful that Matt is going through this.
I’ve known Matt for a good while now and he is a good guy,and anyone who has met him knows that.
It was an accident,simple.
People make mistakes.
Although two people were killed who is to say who is in the wrong?
Whether it was Matt,the Middleton guy, or EVEN the pedestrians…..were they wearing reflective clothing?
Because I know when I head home from work it’s very difficult to see people in the dark especially if they’re not being smart and taking the right procautions.
I agree with a previous comment…WHY WERE THESE KIDS OUT AT NIGHT WALKING TO THE TOM THUMB,especially the girls with the older guys?
This is to Middleton:
This is going to be very hard for you to comprehend, I know, but get on your computer, go to wear tv. and watch over and over and over again, your comments that you made. It is going to take you quite a few times to really get it, ok. This is my point to you:
Had you not “sped up” when he tried to pass you, ALL OF THESE KIDS WOULD BE STILL HERE DOING WHAT KIDS DO.
If I were the parents of any of these kids involved, I would be talking to an attorney right now. Because had YOU not done that, this kid would have passed you and been on his way, the kids walking, would not be lost to their families.
ALL THESE FAMILIES LIVES CHANGED THE INSTANT THAT YOU DECIDED THAT YOU COULD PLAY “ROAD RAGE”. DID YOU KNOW THAT “ROAD RAGE” IS A FELONY?
DO YOU GET IT? If you don’t. then watch it again. You can’t take back what you said.
I wish someone would put that little film on “youtube” . Let the whole world see. I bet there would be attorney’s banging on these families doors to get them to go after you.
And I pray that ” accident still under investigation” means YOU.
And one last thing: To any person that has commented on this, making any reference of blame to any of these kids, shame on you. The kids walking are not to be blamed, and the kid driving is not the blame. And if any of you don’t see that, go to wear tv and you watch it over and over again until it sinks in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
in response to “disgusted”
This tragedy had nothing to do with ego on the driver of the SUVs part….
He was driving on a dark 2 lane road and a stranger in another vehicle in front of him started slowing down and stopping abruptly, in an almost threatening manner. the driver of the SUV had no idea who or what this person was or what he was trying to do. He felt uncomfortable behind J. Middleton, The driver of the SUV was only trying to get away or out from behind Middletons vehicle and nothing more…He wasn’t driving eratic or crazy, in fact he was trying to avoid having a collision with Middleton. And wasn’t J. Middleton the one that admitted he kept speeding up to prevent the other driver from passing him?
I hope this answers your question on why the driver in the SUV felt he needed to pass J. Middletons vehicle.
Road rage is an awful thing and it is very evident that this was a case of it. One asks “Why didnt he let him pass”? Another would say “Why did he need to pass”? When two egos collide on the road there is never any good out of it and in this case lives were lost over what ?…….the need to pass another individual in a 35 to 45 mph speed zone. Many families will now have losses of their loved ones and the hurt will last forever. Please, if you take nothing away from this article, consider this, one minute these people were enjoying that beautiful thing called youth and the next minute it was gone. Drive carefully and with civility, that steel shell around you does not make you invincible nor does it make every car with you a competition to see who gets to the next red light first. God bless all the families.
What is a 16 year old doing with a 24 year old?
My heart aches for ALL of Jeremy’s family, especially his father, sister and brothers. I knew Jeremy ,and he was a very kind hearted person and loved to make people laugh. His sweet and warm personality made everyone that knew him love him. I have so many fond memories of him and they will be with me always. He was a big part of my life for some time and I loved him. My thoughts and prayers are with his whole family. I pray that God will give them peace and comfort during this tragedy in their lives. Jeremy is with the Angels now and EVERYONE that knew him will miss him terribly!!! As far as the other people involved in this horrific accident, my paryers are with them and their families as well.
Our family is deeply sorry for this terrible accident. We are sorry for all the lost children that day. I have talked with matt and he is deeply sorry and wishes he could change everything. I have been in the family for 12 years, and he has always been a wonderful kid. I just dont understand why the other man in front wouldnt let him pass. It wasnt his place to hold him back. There is more to that story he was not only not letting him pass, but was also messing with him. He said he would stop and then speed up like he was trying to make him run into the back of him. Matt said he was going to try and pass 1 more time, and if couldnt pass was going to turn by the tom thumb and then the accident happened. Matt said the man was doing this for a couple miles. Everyone has questions but why did he have to go home? Why didnt he go to the tom thumb to call? I feel he has something to hide, but I cant pass judgement. I just hope they investigate to the fullest and get the right answers. But all of our thoughts and prayers go out to the families. We are so sorry this terrible accident happened. please dont pass judgement on Matt he is a worderful kid. And for Matt we all love u and we are here for u. U know where I live, and my door is always open u know that.
man matt this is crazy that it is happining to u u dont deserve this ur a good man u never do anything wrong man were all praying for u in mcdavid
I am so deeply sorry to the parents of Jeremy and Rachel who lost their precious children and also for the children that were injured, but miraculously survived this ordeal. I cannot even begin to imagine what you all are going through right now, but I do know that you will not be able to get through it without lots of prayers, love and support from your family and friends.
To the Ziza family, I am also so very sorry for what Matt is having to go through now, as I wouldn’t even wish that on my worst enemy. Please let him know that the residents of the Bratt community are praying for him and his family and ask that God give you all the strength, faith and courage to face the coming days ahead.
Myself and a bus load of cadets were on our way back from Baton Rouge when we heard about this very tragic accident. We couldn’t hardly believe what we had heard!
The entire trip there and back we encountered so many wreckless drivers, that I just kept asking myself, what are these drivers thinking? Needless to say, my prayers were on high alert the entire trip that we would all make it back home safely that night.
All that to say this, unfortunately their are drivers on our roads EVERYWHERE, that make poor decisions and don’t even consider what effect it could have on themselves or those around them. MANY decisions were made on this particular night, at that particular time on everyone’s part, which lead to this unfortunate accident that occurred. No-one can change that now, but I hope and pray that it will serve as a wake up call and make drivers more aware of how their decisions and actions affect others and their lives.
Personally…. I feel that speeding your car up to prevent someone from passing, whether they should or shouldn’t, is just another form of road rage!
Poor decisions on all these teen-agers part to me is more understandable than that of a grown man who should have known better. We are suppose to get wiser with age and make better descisions!
Mr. Middleton, If you believed that the driver behind you was driving carelessly, as you so famously put it, I am just wondering WHY you felt the need to add to the problem?
if the other guy intentionaly blocked matt & walks then justice just wont be served.
prayers go out to both families, & matt where all here for you through this tough time.
Jeremy lee Shipley was an amazing person,he always smiled and laughed he would brighten the room up just by entering it. i know this because he is my brother. i will never get to hug him, he will never get to witness my wedding nor the birth of his niece or nephew. we lost someone so amazing. my heartaches i dont know what to do with myself. i know it was his time to go but no one was ready for this. my heart goes out to the other victims. i miss my brother so much. the two men that were driving the cars know exactly what happened and no one can man up and tell the truth. all i know i will never have him back. for those with negative things to say about my brother, you know NOTHING. my brother was special for those who knew him he had a disorder. he loved being around younger people because he never wanted to get old. he is a huge part of my life, but god took him to heaven he is all better now but he is looking down on the people that did this if it wasn’t an accident may god have mercy on your souls. i know everyone will never be the same again i wont but god bless you all
i am very sorry this happend and our prayers go to both families
All in all this was a very tragic accident. I have a couple of questions. What were a 16 year old girl and a 14 year old girl doing out that late at night on a school night with a group of boys 18 and older. Where were these girls parents. If Mr. Zisa hit these kids as he was attempting to pass Mr. Middleton for the 2nd time, there would be no way he (Mr. Middleton) couldn’t have seen exactly everything involved in the accident. If Mr. Middleton did as he stated, that would seem to be considered wreckless driving and be a major contributing factor to the accident. If I were these kids’ parents I would look to a civil case of “wrongful death” suite against Mr. Middleton. I agree with Tabitha and Carrie on there assesment of Mr. Middleton. I wonder what he was trying to hide from the police to make him go all the home to call 911.
I personally think this is one subject that should have comments disabled to stop the immature folks who are making pain worse on these families.
iTS BAD ENOUGHT THE PEOPLE DIED ITS SAD BUT UNDERSTAND WHAT THESE KIDS ARE GOING THROUGHT AND WILL GO THROUGH THIS FOR THIER REST OF THIER LIFE IAM SURE THIS WASNT DO OUT OF FUN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GROW UP PEOPLE I KNOW BOTH SIDES OF THE FAMILYS ARE HURTING BETTER BAD
GOD BLESS YOU CHILDREN AND THE OTHER FAMILY
I’m not expecting nice replies from anyone after I finish this post. Most people have been quite mean and hurtful with their words. They have NO idea what anyone who had a child involved in this horrible event is going through.
First of all, I would like to ask that ALL the blaming and finger pointing STOP…it isn’t helping Rachel or Jeremys families or Matthew and his family..Matthew and Rachel and Jeremy and the others are all victims in this horrible incident. People need to quit trashing the kids and their families that were hurt and killed. Those poor sweet children are gone forever, my heart breaks for their families as it also breaks for Matthew. I want to extend my deepest sympathy to Rachel and Jeremys families, I’m sure they were great kids like Matthew, I’m so sorry, words will never describe. I feel Matthews pain because I am Matthews mother, I can’t even begin to imagine what Rachels and Jeremys family are going through…..Please one day find it in your hearts to forgive my son. And pray that he can forgive himself too. We all hurt, we all feel anger, we all wish we could go back and change the events that took place, but we can’t.
People just don’t realize how hard it is to see your son suffer and knowing he will never ever be the same kid ever again, or know what its like knowing you’ll never see or touch or hug a child that was taken from you in a blink of an eye.
People don’t realize the enormous loss Rachel and Jeremys families are feeling. I wish I could trade my life to give them back to you but I can’t. You will be in my prayers for many many days to come..Again, I am deeply sorry for your loss.
this is really sad why play the blame game….. tragic or should i say freak accidents happen all the time i know no one involved but people need to stop blaming each other and pull together and pray for everyone i have lost a bunch of loved ones and we will never know why???other than god called them home if it was not there time to go they would still be here its hard to understand but its true…..and as for Mr.Middleton why is a man playing games on the road shows how stupid you are you cant drive and play games its not smart to do…and how do we know Mr Middleton didn’t run him off the road and is just covering his own rear……… i hope he wont do that agian if you like to play on the road why not race on a dirt track instead….if anyone gets punished it should be Mr.Middelton……..my heart aches with all of you for the family who lost loved ones i am sorry and may god be with you……i know you lost loved ones and you have pain but how do you think Matthew a young child also feels he will have to live with this forever……and i think people need to understand what hes going through is sad and he needs help love support from everyone just as well as the others involved……
if only you people knew what the families and especially matt is going through now. they dont need anything else they already have to deal with everything! its not matts fault it was an accidient!
A statement made by Micah Orr, one of the pedestrians involved in this tragedy
provides proof that the pedestrians were not on the grass or shoulder of the road, but indicates they were in the southbound lane as stated by the driver of the SUV.
“If I’d a seen headlights, I would have snatched everyone and pushed them to side of the road,” he said. “I didn’t see anything. No headlights at all.” ( taken from pnj,com)
Middletons statement says he saw the SUVs lights …. he said he sped up to not let the SUV pass twice.
AMEN to Lisa. Yes, I still think Middleton could have prevented all this. Now all the families need prayer.
To anyone saying that Matt Zisa deserves the highest jail time possible, think about the pain the families of the deceased are going through, why would you want another family to go through that as well? While I personally am not a very Christian person, im sure many of YOU are. If there is anything I DO know about the bible, its that blood for blood is not the way to go. It was an accident, no one did anything on purpose. While I am infuriated at J Middletons statements, 2 people are already dead. Thats enough pain. Quit blaming and start caring.
to anyone and everyone who read my post:
I did not, nor am I, stating that anyone involved in this accident, is, or was, under the influence of alcohol or any other substance.
I made no statements about anything specific to the accident. I was not there, I did not interview witnesses, and I have not seen a police report.
I was only providing the information (which is available to the public) from the Florida State Statutes as I would imagine several people are wondering what could happen.
This does not mean anyone has been charged or even will be charged. The information is just information. It shows what the fines and max penalties are, and also shows how the State of Florida adds to the sentence if Hit and Run, or DUI are factors.
This does not mean Hit and Run or DUI are factors in this accident. I am only providing information.
I did not write the laws, nor do I enforce the laws, nor do I interpret the laws. I am just letting everyone know what the law says.
Many people are trying to put all the blame on one person, Mat Zisa, but why just him. There are many ways to look at this and it needs to be investigated to the most extreme. For instance, what were the people doing walking down the road at 10:00 p.m. Shouldnt the 16 year old student of Tate be at home at 10:00 at night on a school night? It’s very irresponsible for this young ladies parents to allow their daughter to be walk along the road at 10:00 at night. As for John Middleton, what an irresponsible person, and to admit to speeding up so someone couldnt pass him. Excuse me, but who died and made you king of the highway???? Here is the exact words of John from the “LIVE” t.v. interview:
JOHN MIDDLETON/WITNESS “These people behind me were driving crazy and I was going about the speed limit and they tried to pass me so I sped up a little bit and they fell back behind me and then they came around one more time and that’s when the accident happened. It was bad. All I seen was the lights from behind me and I went to the house and called 911 and that was it.”
I don’t know how close he lived to the accident, but I think that this is called “LEAVING THE SEEN OF AN ACCIDENT.” Especially when there is the Tom Thumb right there. Just think of the stories that would be going around if he hadnt come back to the seen.
As for Matt, I dont really know you personally, but I knew you from Northview. You seemed like a really responsible person with a bright future. In the end the truth will be told and justice will be served. I pray for the deceased family and friends. As well as for Matt.
That wreck was pretty bad. The sad thing is that some died. I hope there are no more bad wrecks anywhere again!
OK PEOPLE ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.. THE FACTS ARE IT IS A PASSING ZONE GO SEE FOR YOURSELF, HE WAS NOT EVEN TICKETED AT THE SCENE AND STILL HAS NOT BEEN CHARGED (INVESTIGATION IS STILL PENDING) HE DID PASS HIS TOX. TEST OR HE WOULD HAVE BEEN ARRESTED AND HE WASN’T AND HIS HEADLIGHTS WERE ON THEY AUTOMATICALLY COME ON IN THE TRUCK WHEN YOU TURN ON THE KEY….AS FOR PASSING MR. MIDDLETON HE WASN’T DRIVING ERRITIC HE HAD ATTEMPTED TO PASS PRIOR BECAUSE MIDDLETON WAS SLOWING DOWN TO ALMOST A STOP AND THE GOING AGAIN HE THOUGHT MAYBE HE WAS LOST OR LOOKING FOR AN ADDRRESS AND ATTEMPTED TO PASS WHEN MIDDLETON SPED UP THIS WENT ON UNTIL MATT DECIDED TO PASS AGAIN AND MIDDLETON SPED UP AGAIN MATT WENT TO MOVE OVER TO PASS AND IT WAS TOO LATE, THAT IS WHY THERE IS NO BRAKE MARKS AND THEY DIDN’T HEAR A HORN. THIS IS A TRADGEDY AND OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO THE FAMILIES AND THE SURVIVORS AND TO LET YOU ALL KNOW MATT IS SORRY FOR WHAT HAS HAPPENED..AS FOR ALL HE WILL NEVER BE THE SAME. I KNOW ALL THESE FACTS BECAUSE WE ARE GOING THROUGH THIS WITH HIM. PLEASE EVERYONE JUST PRAY FOR THE FAMILIES AND THE SURVIVORS AND FOR MATT AND HIS FAMILY EVERYONE IS HURTING.
in response to “joe”
WEAR TV 3 announced yesterday evening that Mr Zisa’s drug/alchohol tests were negative…meaning he was clean and not impaired in any way shape or form.
The toxology tests on the victims were said not to be elaberated on.
And to be honest, I don’t know exactly what “elaberated on” means in this case.
in response to WildBill and riversunshine
If Matthew Zisa WAS speeding, then John Middleton by his own admission was exceeding the speed limit even more so than Mr Zisa……
John Middleton admitted he sped up to prevent Mr Zisa from passing in a live TV interview the night of the accident, not just once, but two times.
What was the purpose of him speeding up to prevent the SUV from passing him?
If Matthew Zisa was speeding it was only to avoid the erratic driving of Mr Middleton…who ( may I point it out again) admitted to speeding up to prevent Mr Zisa’s SUV from passing.
All these “whys” being asked wont change what happened..
We have a great kid like Matthew going through a personal hell right now and probably for the rest of his life….We have the families of Rachel and Jeremy who are going through the worst kind of hell imaginable.
We have friends and family on both sides of this issue struggling, looking for answers, we have a lot of anger on both sides, and a lot of heart ache.
Three families lost their children that night…Rachel and Jeremy are gone, and Matthews parents will never have the same son they had before this tragedy took place…nothing will bring either of these families their children back EVER.
As for John Middleton..again, I hope God has mercy on you too for your role in this, and you have some nerve and the audacity to deny any guilt in this tragedy.
WHY DID YOU LEAVE THE SCENE TO GO HOME. WHAT DID YOU NEED TO HIDE?????? I BELIEVE IN THE END IT WILL BE FOUND OUT THAT YOU HAD SPED UP THE SECOND TIME PLAYING CHICKEN AGAIN AND WHEN THE ACCIDENT HAPPENED, YOU RAN. THEN CALLED THE LAW, THINKING THAT YOU HAD BETTER, IN CASE THE BOY PASSING YOU HAD ALREADY WROTE DOWN YOUR TAG# FROM THE FIRST INCIDENT?
MY SYMPATHIES TO THE FAMILIES. YOUR CHILDREN DIDN’T DO ANYTHING WRONG WHETHER THEY IN, ON, BESIDE, WHATEVER PART OF THE ROAD THEY WERE WALKING ON. IT IS A TRAGIC ACCIDENT.
MY SYMPATHIES ALSO TO THE DRIVER WHO HIT THE KIDS. YOU HAD A TRAGIC ACCIDENT. YOU ARE NOT TO BLAME EITHER. YOU WILL PROBABLY GET CARELESS DRIVING OR WRECKLESS DRIVING, BECAUSE THEY HAVE TO CHARGE YOU WITH SOMETHING. DON’T LISTEN TO THE ANGRY PEOPLE WHO WANT TO POINT THEIR FINGER, THEY WERENT THERE, AS I WAS’NT EITHER.
I BASE MY OPINION ON WHAT THE MAN SAID ON THE NEWS THAT HE “SPED UP” TO KEEP THE BOY FROM PASSING. I BELIEVE HE ALSO DID IT THE 2ND TIME AND THAT IS WHAT CAUSED THIS TRAGEDY.
TO SAY THAT THE BOY WAS PASSING YOU, AND YOU SAW THE KIDS GET HIT, AND YOU LEFT AND WENT HOME, THEN CALLED THE LAW, JUST SHOWS ME THAT YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO HIDE. AND I HOPE YOU GET FOUND OUT.
for those of who might be wondering what can happen, here is a look at the law:
Florida State Statutes
Manslaughter and Vehicular Homicide-s. 316.193 (3), F.S.
The most serious driving-related charges that a person may face in Florida are those involving manslaughter and vehicular homicide. Particularly when these coincide with leaving the scene of an accident (hit and run),or DUI. A driver may face extremely harsh penalties for a conviction.
The Following are the offenses and penalties for these crimes:
Vehicular Manslaughter / Vehicular Homicide:
Second Degree Felony
Up to $10,000 fine
Up to 15 years imprisonment
Vehicular Manslaughter or Vehicular Homicide
With either DUI or Hit and Run:
Leaving the scene of an accident with DUI or Hit and Run
manslaughter or vehicular homicide has occurred is a First Degree Felony
Up to $10,000 fine
Up to 30 years imprisonment
I don’t understand how some of you condem John Middleton and then pass on condolences to Matt Isa for having found himself in such a terrible predictament. Matthew Isa was speeding, driving eratically and passing in a “No Passing Zone”, lost control of his vehicle, most likely due to his excessive speed and eratic driving, drove onto the shoulder and killed two people. Both men share the burden of responsibility for this reckless behavior. Behavior both men have probably exhibited in the past. It was not an accident, it was reckless, irresponsible behavior and both men should face trial and be punished severly. I don’t believe either man should be incarcerated, but do think every free minute of every day for the next ten years should be spent conducting community service, talking to other kids about how their irresponsible behavior resulted in the loss of life. In addition, they owe restitution to these families for the expenses they are about to incur for funerals, memorials, etc. Both men will live with this for the rest of their lives and so will the families who lost loved ones, difference is the families who lost loved ones are innocent victims. My heart goes out to the victims families. As for the other two idiots, your actions and results of your actions are your burden to carry and for you two I have NO SYMPATHY!
Johnathon Middleton is not to blame, the other driver was flashing his lights being very aggressive behind him. When he said he sped up, he didn’t mean he floored it to keep him from passing. While I’m sure Mr. Zisa meant no harm also, he is to blame for driving like a fool. Johnathon came straight home after we heard the sirens and called 911. He wasn’t even sure if anyone had been hit. Johnathon is my neighbor and wouldn’t hurt a fly. He is a very sweet kind-hearted person who is very upset that people were killed. Everyone is just looking for someone to blame and actually it was just a tragic chain of events that could have been avoided but we can’t change it now. My heart hurts for the family of those killed, god be with you. My prayers certainly are.
You people are so caught up with one of your own “friend, student, a nice guy” that you do not see that Mr. Middleton is not the one that hit and killed and wounded those kids, it was Mr. Zisa that did it, he did not have to pass that other car just so he could get to the next intersection before the next car. This is clear that Mr. Zisa is the one and only one to blame for killing and wounding these kids. You people should be ashamed of your selves for blaming other people whether than blaming the one who did it. SHAME ON YOU!!!
My question is: If they were walking on the grass were they that close to the road for them to get hit? My heart goes out to them all,but lets look at the real picture here instead of blaming two others. I have seen people walking that road at night and it’s hard to see them, and they will not move off the road or they are walking so close to the road that you have to take a chance yourself with your car leaving the road to keep from hitting them. These are adults as well as teenagers. If you want to see for yourself take a ride down that road about 8 or 9 PM.
Mr. Middleton is not toblame. This accident happened at the end of my road. People speed through here all the time. I myself drive down Hwy 97 every day and have people try to pass me too when its uncalled for. I have been on interstates where big trucks use these same tactics to keep cars from passing them. There was no need to pass anybody on this stretch of road, 2 seconds later, you yield into Hwy 29, but adrenalin gets to pumpin if somebody cuts you off. It was dark, I was out there tonight at the same spot just to see. Have you ever seen a person trying to pass you, get frustrated and turn off their headlights to not let you know they are coming around you? I have……..
Everyone is in shock and mourning for this horrific incident. You should turn to GOD for prayer rather than read all these posts and get upset that people are voicing their opinions. Its not that nobody isn’t concerned about one person more so than another, its everyone is still trying to cope. Mr. Middleton should get a lifetime in jail for his actions. Mr. Zisa your life will never be the same, but have faith in GOD and seek guidance of loved ones to help pull you through. To the family & friends of the ones who passed, don’t seek revenge or get angered; your hurt and lost right now and you must see that you think its to soon but GOD knows our first and last breathes. I’m not justifying anyones actions or taking any sides. That road is dark at night, I used to speed down it all them time growing up, accidents happens and people must not point fingers bc no one is perfect. GOD BLESS YOU ALL IN THIS TIME OF SORROW. I hope you celebrate the lives rather than disgrace them with internet forum bitterness. People are only commenting bc the FHP released the information that way, everyone will have a different story.
There’s been a lot of debate as to whether the young people were walking in the grass or in the roadway. The official press release from the Florida Highway Patrol says:
“THERE WERE 6 PEDESTRIANS WALKING NORTHBOUND IN THE SOUTHBOUND LANE OF CR95A”
That is what we reported in the story.
William, Admin
everyone IS praying for the lost ones and family members like you,
we do care a lot about the driver too, mostly because he is one of the most amazing guys out there. and I know there is nothing to bring back the teens that were killed, but put yourself in his shoes too, after having to go through that. and it sounds like a lot of fault is to be put on the man that appeared on the news. I didnt watch the news though, but just as a reassurance, your family is in MANY peoples prayers.
I agree whole heartily with Carrie. Mr. Middleton, you should be very ashamed of yourself. You sat there on the television bragging about what an reckless idiot you are in a car. Do you know the damage you have done? Apparently not, because those young lives are your fault, not the young man who actually hit them. You decided to play chicken, then decided that you wanted to play GOD of the road. How dare you. I would bet money you were drunk as a skunk, or higher than a horse and that is why you waited to call the cops until you got home. Or is it that you like dangerous thrills? Real life is not the Johnny Knoxville Movie (Jacka**). You can’t go around jerking people around for your whacked amusement. But then, like Johnny Knoxville, it looks like you got the 15 minutes of fame that you so desperately seeked, and maybe you are just that, a (Jacka**)
I am the aunt of Jeremy Shipley, You people need to get the facts straight, the kids was not walking in the middle of the road they were walking on the grass, and as for the driver who killed my nephew he was passing the other vehicle in a no passing zone, which from where I come from is illegal. And I hear everyone so considerate, and that everyone’s hearts go out to the driver who killed my nephew and a 16 year old girl, and the kid that is still in the hospital. where is your concern for them. Also I hope and pray that Mr. Zisa gets the highest jail time possible, for ruining all those lives.
MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE PEOPLE INVOLVED IN ALL OF THIS. TWO INNOCENT PEOPLE LOST THERE LIFE AND ANOTHER HAS TO LIVE WITH THE GUILT FOREVER ALL BECAUSE ONE PERSON WHO BOLDLY ADMITTED HE WOULD NOT LET HIM PASS. IF HE WOULD HAVE ALLOWED HIM TO PASS THE FIRST TIME THIS NEVER WOULD HAVE HAPPENED!!! MY HEART IS BREAKING FOR THE FAMILIES OF THE LOST ONES AND THE ONE IN THE HOSPITAL.. AS FOR MATT HE IS VERY CLOSE TO MY HEART AND I KNOW HIM PERSONALLY AND THIS IS KILLING HIM. SO FOR ALL THE PEOPLE WHO DON’T KNOW THE FACTS, HIS HEAD LIGHTS WERE ON AND HE WAS NOT DRIVING CRAZY HE WAS JUST TRYING TO GET AROUND MR. MIDDLETON WHO REFUSED TO LET HIM HE NEVER SAW THEM AND NOW THIS YOUNG MAN HAS TO RELIVE THIS FOREVER!!! PLEASE INSTEAD OF THROWING STONES PLEASE PRAY FOR ALL INVOLVED!!!
This is mostly for Mr Middleton…..You should be ashamed of yourself for being part of the grief so many people are going through right now, from the families of the victims to the driver of the SUV…..and for fthe group of the pedestrians that claim there were NO headlights….#1 the SUV is a 2003 chevrolet, you can’t even turn the key into an on position without headlights coming on….and besides Mr Middleton himself claimed on TV as he bragged so boldly about speeding up to block the SUV driver from passing him, on the drivers 2nd attempt to pass him he saw the headlights and then the accident…then he left the scene of the accident, he didnt even try to stay to help. Why go all the way home to call 911?
when the Tom Thumb was closer?
Maybe Mr Middleton was really the erratic driver and Matthew Zisa was trying to get away from him? All I can say to you Mr Middleton is this THANK GOD for TIVO!
Your “eye witness” statement completely contradicts that of the surviving pedestrians.
May God have mercy on YOU for the lives you helped destroy!
Thanks. Not sure if this is Will Conway, but either way, thanks alot.
Gage–We would not be able to allow someone to post a person’s phone number on here.
However, I will tell you that 411.com is a great place to look up a phone number. That site provides a phone number for a person with that name in Cantonment.
If anyone can get me John Middleton (one from the news braodcast)’s phone number, it would be greatly appreciated.
I personally know the Zisa family. And I know that Matthew is an extremely kind, wonderful and caring young man. I can tell you, that his heart is breaking right now over this awful tragedy. Matthew is going to have to live with this the rest of his life. What both families need is prayers and support. Please do not judge this young man, nor the victims, or even the “man” who decided to play car games.
4 lives will never be the same again. All we can do is seek strength, to get through this. May all involved, find the comfort they need.
Why was he blocking the guy from passing anyway?
why not just let him pass?
Isn’t that what we usually do?
I agree, the dumb one that was bragging about blocking him(Matt) from passing should carry a burden. That was such a stupid move! Matt probably was not able to see the pedestrians because of the “blocker”. Now all of the families will suffer. If the dumb one wouldn’t have been “playing” this could have been avoided. I think the “blocker” should be charged for at least reckless driving or endangerment.
I taught Matt at Northview last year. From the time he was in my class, he was never anything other than a class individual & young man of good character. Make no mistake, this is certainly a tragedy for all people involved in this situation; particularly for those who have lost loved ones. My hope & prayer for Matt, his family & the family of those who were killed is for healing, and for peace. Matt, just know that you & your family have my prayers. May God bless everyone who has been affected by this tragedy.
- Curt Bell
Matt is a really great guy and I can’t even start to imagine what he is going through right now. My heart breaks for him, and all of the loved ones of the people who were killed. Please, everyone, instead of pointing fingers, just pray for everyone who was involved, and everyone who is affected by this.
To “Citizen” and “B”.. please read the article again…
“and was passing northbound traffic when he failed to notice six pedestrians walking northbound in the southbound lane of the road” …..that is where I got the information about them walking in the road. If they were walking on the southbound lane of the road – they were not on the shoulder or off the road. Sorry you feel so bad. I do too, but I was just wondering why they were on the road at 10PM? The whole thing is very unfortunate for all involved and their extended families.
We at the Slay house are praying for and thinking about all of the people hurt in the accident (we did not know any of them personally). My husband and I know Matt from Northview, and we were so impressed with him — just as many of the individuals are that posted responses. I know personally how easy it is to make a mistake on the road. I’m sure everyone over the age of 15 has had some sort of “close call” while driving. It makes me so sad that a kid as smart, funny, talented, and nice as Matt is now having to deal with such a serious situation. Scott and I are praying for Matt’s present and his future.
I didnt really know Matt that well, but i knew him from alll of his close friends, he is not a reckless person and would never do something like this, everyone in the accident and the ones involved are hurting badly i must assume, i want them all to know the they’re all in my prayers (the ones involved and the families)
Matt your in my prayers, and be strong through all of this its gonna be hard but try and keep your head up.!:) Iam here for you.
and so is everyone else in the accident!
Katelyn iam her for you too!:)
“First of all don’t you dare say they were walking in the middle of the road.
The one girl that was killed was my BEST FRIEND.
She was like my sister & you have no right making her like an idiot.
Grow up & have a heart.
& thank you for the others who actually care.
‘RIP Rachel.
I love you girl”
No one was making fun of anyone. No one was calling anyone an idiot (other than the guy who sped up to block Matt from passing. That was a bonehead move.) so just chill out. Everyones sad this happened. Im sad it had to happen to one of my best friends and you’re sad about your friend as well. But dont tell people to grow up and have a heart when we all care about someone involved in this accident. And remember the most important fact, it was an accident.
B – I am very sorry for your loss. I am like you where the comment about walking in the middle of the road was taken badly. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and Rachels family. For those talking about the driver, he may have been a great guy and it sounds like the guy speeding up should be the one in trouble also but please remember there are two people that families and friends will never see again. No matter how it happened, they are gone. The whole thing is just extremely tragic and it just totally breaks my heart.
First of all don’t you dare say they were walking in the middle of the road.
The one girl that was killed was my BEST FRIEND.
She was like my sister & you have no right making her like an idiot.
Grow up & have a heart.
& thank you for the others who actually care.
‘RIP Rachel.
I love you girl
My prayers to all involved. No one deserves to have to carry this weight on their conscience , no matter which side of this incident you are involved in. Matt I love you man,hang in there. The Lord knows your heart and knows you did not do this on purpose. The Holy Bible says in Matthew 5: verse 4 Blessed are those who mourn,for they will be comforted. Matt once again I love you very much kid,dont let the enemy destroy your spirit. God loves you all.
I couldn’t believe it when I heard it. Matt Zisa? No way. Yes way. I feel so bad for him. I knew him from Pre Calculus. He will have to live the rest of his life with those memories. No one who is as good a person as Matt should have to go through something that terrible. God help all those involved. I pray for him and for the deceased. This is the worst news for the families of those two and possibly the third. God bless you all. I’ll be praying.
I agree with “parent”. I also saw on t.v. where the guy he passed bragged about speeding up. I was like OMG, “Did he just say that?” I usually slow down for someone passing even if i feel they are driving recklessly. either way, I agree with Deni, everyone makes mistakes!
I do not live there and am a friend of Jeremy who was killed. He had only been down in Florida for a couple of months. I wasn’t sure how the roads were. I didn’t know if the driver may have swerved to far over and went into the shoulder lane. Bottom line, we have lost a friend, a son, an uncle and a brother. His family is devestated. They just want him home. He was a wonderful person. Don’t fault the pedestrians, we weren’t there.
The guy in the car Matt was passing admitted on T.V. that he intentionally blocked
Matt from passing. He said that he intentionally sped up to block Matt from passing. Matt apparently did not see them until he hit them. I know this does not help the situation at all but I believe justice will not be served if Matt is charged and the other guy walks. My church is praying for all involved.
“Where are you getting they were in the middle of the road? How do you know they weren’t on the shoulder.”
Well he was passing a car, and cars dont drive on the shoulder, they drive on the road.
I have myself seen people in the road at night on a road that I travel and think to myself if they only knew how very hard it is to see them walking at night. It is a very sad situation. I personally did not know Matt but i’m sure he is really going through alot right now. Prayers are so needed for him and his family as well as the families of the pedestrians! It is such a tragic story for all families involved!!!
Where are you getting they were in the middle of the road? How do you know they weren’t on the shoulder.
Why were 6 people walking in the southbound lane – on the highway – at 10 PM?? They should have never been on the road in the first place, and it is extremely hard to see things (even deer) on or beside the road…. those people should have known better than to walk in the middle of the road.
Everyone makes mistakes! No matter what happened in this accident please everyone remember we are all human. Zisa has to live with this for the rest of his life. Thank God for lessons learned. God bless all involved. Keep your chin up katelyn.
please please please kids while you are driving around the north end of escambia, slow down. , way down. if you have friends that you know drive fast and dont pay attention, dog them until til its just not cool anymore. katelyn i have cried all morning over this and now you have to stay strong for your brother. he has quite a row to hoe after this. my condolences to families that have lost thier children in this awful accident.
Thats my brother, the one driving i just found out about the accident. Matthew would not have done this on person he is loving person. i’m sorry to the one that were hurt in the accident and my heart does go out to the people who were killed, and injured.I know my brother almost better then anybody my prayers go out to everyon involved in the accident
please god let me no any more.help me get my baby back to oklahoma,city ok please
oh my god. these precious children. my heart is breaking for all the families. makes me want to tie my teen to my hip. our children are such treasures and blessings, as parents we must never tire of the constant reminders, exhortations, instructions we impart to them as to the dangers of driving. we must ignore the rolling of the eyes, the “yeah yeah i know, we have been over this a hundred times” replies. never let a day go by without a hug and kiss and i’m proud of you baby. bad things happen to good people all the time.