A tragic hit-and-run case in Florida is finally moving toward trial almost two years after a mother and her two small children were struck while crossing the road in Sarasota. The heartbreaking accident shocked the local community and left a family completely shattered.
Both children died at the scene, while their mother fought for her life in hospital for weeks before later passing away. Now, the woman accused in the crash is expected to appear before a jury later this year.
Florida Hit-and-Run Case Expected to Go to Trial
According to court records, 73-year-old June Fenton is expected to face trial in December 2026 in connection with the deadly crash that killed Taeler Bennett and her two sons. Reports from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune stated that a court hearing is scheduled for November 2026 to finalise whether the trial will begin in early or mid-December.
The case has received major attention because of the tragic deaths of two young children and their mother. Many people in Sarasota have continued to follow the case closely as the victims’ family waits for justice.
| Case Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Accused | June Fenton |
| Victims | Taeler Bennett, Kiylan Galliher, Rio Galliher |
| Location | Sarasota, Florida |
| Accident Date | February 10, 2025 |
| Trial Date | Expected December 2026 |
| Vehicle | Lexus |
| Main Charges | Leaving scene of deadly crash |
What Happened on the Night of the Accident
The crash happened around 8:30 p.m. on February 10, 2025. Taeler Bennett was crossing the street with her two sons in a Sarasota neighbourhood when they were reportedly hit by a Lexus driven by June Fenton.
At the time of the accident, 5-month-old Kiylan Galliher was strapped to Bennett’s chest, while 2-year-old Rio Galliher was sitting in a stroller. The impact was so severe that both children died at the scene.
Bennett suffered life-threatening injuries and was rushed to hospital. Doctors kept her on life support as she remained in a coma for several weeks after the accident.
Police Investigation Helped Identify the Vehicle
Investigators later collected surveillance footage showing visible damage to the front bumper and grill of the Lexus involved in the crash. Police also found broken headlight pieces at the accident scene, which helped them identify the type of vehicle connected to the case.
The evidence eventually led officers to June Fenton’s home just two days after the crash.
According to the probable cause affidavit, Fenton reportedly slowed down and applied her brakes after hitting the family. However, investigators said she continued driving before later making a U-turn and slowly passing the scene while bystanders were trying to help the injured victims.
Driver Claimed She Thought She Hit a Dog
When questioned by police, Fenton reportedly claimed she believed she had struck a dog while driving home after feeding cats.
According to investigators, she told police she returned to the area because she did not want to see an injured animal suffering. However, after noticing several people already gathered on the road, she believed they were helping the animal and then drove back home.
Police arrested Fenton on March 3, 2025, nearly one month after the deadly crash. Authorities also stated that she cooperated fully during the investigation process.
Charges Became More Serious After Bennett’s Death
At first, Fenton faced two charges related to leaving the scene of a fatal crash and another charge connected to causing serious injury. She pleaded not guilty to those original charges.
However, the case changed after Taeler Bennett died on April 11, 2025. She had remained in a coma since the night of the accident and never recovered from her injuries.
Following her death, prosecutors confirmed that the serious injury charge would be upgraded to a charge involving death, making the case even more serious.
Family Expressed Anger Over Bail Release
The victims’ family openly shared their frustration after Fenton was released from jail on bond while waiting for trial.
Jessica Galliher, grandmother of the two boys, spoke emotionally during interviews following Bennett’s death. She said it was painful knowing the accused driver was sleeping comfortably at home while her grandchildren had lost their lives forever.
She also described the emotional pain suffered by surviving family members, including children trying to understand why their brothers were gone.
The heartbreaking comments touched many people across Florida and increased public attention on the case.
Community Continues Supporting the Victims’ Family
The Sarasota community has continued supporting Bennett’s loved ones since the tragedy happened. Police officials thanked residents for their patience during the lengthy investigation and acknowledged how deeply the incident affected local people.
The case has also restarted conversations about road safety, hit-and-run laws, and the responsibilities drivers have after accidents. Many people believe the upcoming trial could finally bring some accountability for the devastating loss suffered by the family.
