She was 23 years old - a young mother who was merely crossing Main Street in Buffalo with her son. Within seconds she was killed. Amanda Knowlton and her son Isiah were innocent victims of a drunk driver, just like my sister. They were struck by a 21 year old - Christopher Tulumello of Amherst. Here's a link to the Buffalo News article. Police and witnesses say he didn't have the guts to stick around - he fled the scene, and was arrested hours later. He sped through a red light, struck Knowlton and her son, and kept going.
The anger I'm feeling right now is hard to put into words. Isiah Knowlton and his baby brother Sammy are orphans. Amanda's life was snuffed out way too early - just like Karen's. A drunk driver who made a bad choice and now a young woman is dead.
It's hard to feel remorse for Christopher and his family, even after reading what his mother says about him. If he was an adult with a conscience, he would not have fled the scene. He's facing several charges including DWI, vehicular manslaughter, vehicular assault, and leaving the scene of an accident. I understand the judge set bail at $500,000. Is that the price of a young woman's life?
My thoughts and prayers go out to Amanda's family and friends...and those two young boys.
As for Christopher - I hope you learn your lesson and that justice will be served.
Deanna
P.S. I continue my road to recovery after lung surgery. The key is to rest and not to overdo it. That's my prescription.
