Tavares, FL – A tragic event unfolded in a quiet gated community when a 19-year-old driver, now facing DUI manslaughter charges, allegedly struck and killed a 2-year-old boy riding his tricycle.
The incident happened around 7:15 p.m. on Monday in the Oak Bend subdivision, situated roughly 40 miles northwest of Orlando. The toddler, identified as Asher Lepping, was enjoying a ride on his blue tricycle in a cul-de-sac under the watchful eye of his father. His father’s frantic attempts to signal the approaching driver, Joshua Aidan Montero, to decelerate went unheeded. Authorities reported that Montero’s Toyota Tacoma sped into the cul-de-sac, hitting Asher and dragging him and his tricycle several feet before coming to a halt.
In the aftermath, witnesses, including distraught parents and neighbors, converged at the scene to administer CPR to the young boy. Despite their efforts, Asher was later pronounced dead at the hospital, leaving the community in mourning.
Montero, who was dressed only in a swimsuit, appeared visibly shaken as he sat on the sidewalk following the crash. Police at the scene noted that Montero exhibited clear signs of alcohol influence, including a strong alcoholic odor, bloodshot eyes, and unusual behavior such as constant nose itching.
Further complicating the matter, Montero’s breathalyzer test recorded blood alcohol content levels of .062 and .057, figures below the legal limit of .08. However, due to Montero being underage, any alcohol in his system is considered illegal. Investigators suspect that his alcohol levels might have been higher at the time of the incident.
Following his arrest, Montero reportedly made several statements, details of which were withheld in the probable cause affidavit. He is currently detained at Lake County Jail without bond. His court hearing is scheduled for September 25.
In a show of solidarity and support, a GoFundMe campaign was launched by a neighbor for Asher’s grieving family. The community has rallied around the family, expressing both their deep sorrow and outrage at the reckless disregard shown by the driver.
The heartbreaking event raises important questions about road safety and supervision in residential areas, especially those assumed to be secure like gated communities. It underscores a pressing need to enforce stricter traffic controls and awareness about the consequences of driving under influence, particularly in neighborhoods populated by families with young children.
As the legal proceedings against Montero advance, the community remains focused on supporting the Lepping family during this profoundly difficult time, hoping for justice for young Asher.