A Florida woman accused of hitting and killing a five-month-old baby and a two-year-old toddler in a hit-and-run accident has been arrested and charged, according to the Sarasota Police Department.
The Tragic Incident
Date & Location: The crash occurred near North Washington Boulevard and 7th Street in Sarasota.
Victims:
Mother: Taeler Bennett, 29, was critically injured and remains in a medically induced coma.
Children: A five-month-old baby (strapped to the mother’s chest) and a two-year-old in a stroller both died at the scene.
Suspect: June Fenton, 72, was allegedly driving a white Lexus when she struck the family and fled without stopping.
Eyewitnesses: Bennett was thrown onto the windshield of the vehicle before it sped away.
Investigation & Arrest
Tracking the Vehicle: Detectives located Fenton’s damaged Lexus and obtained a search warrant.
Fenton’s Claims:
She thought she had hit a dog and returned to check, but left again.
Her lawyer claims she was trying to avoid construction near her home.
Prosecution’s Counter:
The victims were “clearly visible” on the road.
Fenton allegedly swapped vehicles upon returning home and never reported the incident.
Legal Consequences
Charges:
Two counts of leaving the scene of a fatal crash
One count of leaving the scene of a crash causing serious injury
Bond Set: $650,000
Conditions if Released:
GPS monitoring
Driving ban
Potential Charge Upgrade: If Bennett does not recover, Fenton’s charges could be upgraded.
Fenton’s arraignment is scheduled for next month, where she is expected to plead not guilty.
