(CBS4) – A loved one of Gavin Cecil, a 10-year-old-boy killed in a rollover crash over the weekend, is sharing his heartbreak for the first time since the incident. Police suspect Karena Cecil, his 27-year-old mother, was driving under the influence when she lost control and rolled her car on Interstate 76 in Brighton on Saturday. Karena has two prior DUIs.
Gavin Cecil (credit: CBS)
Karena is now charged with vehicular homicide, DUI, careless driving, child abuse, driving without a license, habitual traffic offender and no proof of insurance.
Karena Cecil (credit: Brighton Police)
A man and another child of Karena’s were also in the car. The man and second child suffered minor injuries.
“He was just a loving, caring kid,” said Anthony Lontine, an ex-boyfriend of Karena who considered himself a father figure to Gavin. “No matter who you are, he was going to go up to you and have a heartwarming conversation with you.”
Lontine said he started dating Cecil’s mother when he was 4 months old and had since been there as a father figure and “best friend.” He said the outgoing and energetic 10-year-old was a quick learner and passionate about baseball.
“He had such a bright future — such a smart, talented kid,” Lontine said.
Over the weekend, Lontine learned he lost that best friend in the crash on I-76.
“At first I felt like it was a dream. I wanted to wake up from the dream,” he said.
Lontine said the other child in the car was Karena and Lontine’s 6-year-old son.
“He lost his best friend,” Lontine said. “I’m trying every day to get better and hold on tight for him and be strong.”
(credit: CBS)
While Karena remains in custody, Lontine said he had no words for her but shared a message to other parents.
“If you’re under the influence, do not put your children in that situation,” Lontine said.
Family members have started a GoFundMe page to pay for Gavin Cecil’s funeral.
Conor McCue
