ORO VALLEY, Ariz. — In a tragic incident that shook the community, a fatal crash claimed the lives of 21-year-old Caitlin and her boyfriend, 22-year-old Paul Garcia, on November 13, 2019. The devastating event occurred near Shannon Road in Oro Valley when the couple’s vehicle was rear-ended by a distracted driver.

A Mother’s Grief Turns to Advocacy

Julie Festerling, Caitlin’s mother, has since dedicated herself to raising awareness about the perils of distracted driving. She vividly recalls the heart-wrenching moment she learned about her daughter’s fate, expressing disbelief and enduring pain. Festerling describes Caitlin as a vibrant individual, balancing two jobs and a full-time student workload at the time of her untimely death.

From Tragedy to Action: “Phones Down, Hands Up”

In response to the tragedy, Festerling co-founded “Phones Down, Hands Up,” a nonprofit organization committed to educating the public about the dangers of distracted driving. Inspired by the desire to channel her anguish into meaningful change, Festerling’s advocacy efforts have spanned nearly four years since the organization’s inception in April, coincidentally Distracted Driving Month.

Spreading Awareness and Hope

Collaborating with Garcia’s mother, Festerling’s nonprofit initiative has engaged the community in dialogue about the consequences of distracted driving. Beyond mourning Caitlin and Paul’s lives, survivors of other accidents have expressed gratitude for their miraculous escapes, often attributing their fortune to the “angels” watching over them. These encounters serve as poignant reminders of lives spared and the potential for prevention.

Pursuit of Justice

Despite the passage of time, the pursuit of justice remains ongoing. Janna Brianne Giron, the woman accused of causing the fatal crash, has declined a plea deal and is scheduled to stand trial in June.

Moving Forward

As the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, initiatives like “Phones Down, Hands Up” persist in their mission to prevent similar incidents. Through advocacy, education, and a commitment to honoring the memory of those lost, hope emerges amidst grief.

About the Reporter:
Kenny Darr, a seasoned journalist with experience spanning across different regions, brings stories to life through his reporting. For story ideas or inquiries, connect with Kenny via email or social media platforms.

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