Justice for Justin not yet Behind Daytona
By Jeff Stolowitz
Daytona Beach
Earlier this month behind Daytona had a chance to speak with Robert Gary regarding the senseless murder of his son Justin during a hit and run accident in which the cowardly perpetrator ran instead of trying to help.
The holidays are here and there has not been an arrest.
The alleged perpetrator as named by the DBPD, Christopher Alan Whealan still walks free on the streets of Daytona Beach, specifically Seabreeze Blvd very close to where the incident did take place.
He has been seen continuing to party up and down the street by many thumbing his nose at authorities with no regard it seems for what occurred on that horrible day.
Just shortly after the day Justin passed away a memorial walk “Justice for Justin” took place over the Seabreeze Bridge. Heartbreaking was the support and love that Justin had from the community and his family. The community has asked, the family has asked, we at Behind Daytona have asked why there has not been arrest? I repeatedly asked Lyda Longa the Daytona Police Department spokesperson and as of yet have not gotten a response as to where the investigation has gotten too. While it is understood that at times investigations take time Mr. Gary has indicated that he keeps getting the brush off as well.
This is a frustrating situation for the family and our community at large. Everyone hopes for justice even knowing nothing can fill the void of not having their son home for the holidays.
While a killer walks free on our streets seemingly repeating the behavior, the bigger issue is in Florida why so many people are getting away with Hit and Run.
While due process must take place and investigators must be impartial. Situations like this are occurring a frenetic pace and the overall system for investigation and prosecution needs to be improved and penalties stiffened.
We have asked the authorities to put out a statement regarding this case, they have had no response.
We here at Behind Daytona wish the Gary family and all of those families that have been traumatized by Hit and Run fatalities the little comfort we can give of our words our prayers and our sympathies.
Please take an UBER or Cab arrange for a designated driver this holiday. Don’t Drive Under The Influence