The driver of the car that hit them became distracted when he dropped a cigarette, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

HERNANDO COUNTY – A mother and two of her children remained hospitalized after they were struck by a car while walking along a roadside, Florida Highway Patrol troopers said.

The mother, Lacey Thomas, 35, is listed in stable condition. Her children, Spencer, 1, and Ava, 3, are listed in very critical condition, FHP troopers said. All three, from Brooksville, were taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital. Thomas’ third child, Tana, 6, who was with them, was uninjured.

FHP troopers said Thomas and her three children were walking south along the north side of Neff Lake Road/Dauphn Drive about 5:01 p.m. Friday (April 1). William Cameron Perkins, 26, of Brooksville was driving his 2002 Jaguar south on Neff Lake Road. Troopers said Perkins dropped a cigarette, which distracted him, and he lost control of his car, which hit Thomas, Spencer and Ava. Tana was not hit.

Troopers said the case is under active investigation and the details could change. Charges are pending, they said.

For information about the FHP, go to flhsmv.gov.

Florida Highway Patrol | Hernando | Pedestrians Hit | Children Injured | Brooksville | TB Reporter

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