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Sam Penrod Reporting Families of three teenagers killed this summer reacted today as the driver of the car they were riding in went to court.
The 16-year old driver and one other passenger survived the crash, which police blame on high speed on a canyon road.
It's still a very emotional time for the families and is now complicated by the fact the case won't be resolved in court for several months now. For everyone in Springville, this accident has been a very painful lesson in the dangers of teenage driving.
Katelyn Gabbitas, Brady Conger and Tasha Brammer were killed on August 2nd when the car they were riding in was speeding down Hobble Creek Canyon and crashed. The car was driven by a 16-year old who survived. He is now being prosecuted in juvenile court on manslaughter charges.
Kathy Elliott, Victim's Mother: "I was really frustrated by his denying guilt, wanting to go to trial, it was frustrating for me to see him seem so smug about his actions."
Joann Brammer, Victim's Stepmother: "There is so many emotions after sitting in court and knowing we're going to have to deal with this continually, and it just brings home there are consequences to every decision we make in this life."
For all of the families, they are finding it very hard to move on from the tragedy.
Cindy Gabbitas, Victim's Mother: "Our lives have been so difficult with her being gone, she brought us such joy and happiness."
The families are hoping the loss of their loved ones will sink in to others, especially teens, that driving recklessly can shatter lives.
Kaitlyn Conger, Victim's Sister: "They just need to watch how they drive, not be stupid, don't go racing. You never know what's going to happen."
The victims' parents have learned it's critical that parents take their teen's driving seriously.
Mike Gabbitas, Victim's Father: "Be mindful of what your kids are driving, where they are driving, who they are driving with."
The 16-year old pleaded not guilty to the charges and will go to trial in March.
