Family of child killed by truck files suit against allegedly drunken driver

By Jim Greene

Published on August 19, 2005

According to police reports, Freddy Rodriguez, 55, attempted to drive a produce truck while under the influence and lost control of the vehicle, hitting several pedestrians, killing Saquan Williams and seriously injuring his mother, Tasha Gibbs, 24. She is still hospitalized, recovering from a fractured skull, a broken leg, and a punctured lung.

Rodriquez will be arraigned Sept. 8, charged with second-degree murder and driving under the influence. The maximum penalty is 15 years in prison.

Tasha Gibbs' family filed suit on her behalf. Meanwhile, the dead boy's father, also named Saquan Williams, has petitioned to be named executor of his son's estate. Although he was not married to Gibbs, his attorney said the two supported the boy jointly.

Her family said Gibbs is just beginning to walk after her injuries and is having emotional problems due to the loss of her child.

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