PEMBROKE PINES, FL – A teenage driver is facing adult charges following a tragic Valentine’s Day crash that claimed the lives of an elderly couple celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary. Albert Yanez Quintana, 17, appeared in Broward County court on Friday, where he faced multiple charges including two counts of vehicular homicide.
The incident unfolded as Quintana was allegedly driving his 2019 Dodge Charger recklessly through Pembroke Pines, resulting in a collision that split the victims’ vehicle in two. Hugo Cardona, Valencia, and his wife, Patricia, were killed in the crash, leaving their family in mourning.
In court, the victim’s son, Hugo Cardona, Jr., expressed his devastation and urged the judge to deliver justice for his parents’ untimely deaths. He described his parents as the center of their family, highlighting the deep void left by their passing.
The crash report indicates that witnesses observed Quintana driving at high speeds and weaving through traffic, seemingly showing off his new car. This reckless behavior is believed to have directly contributed to the fatal accident.
The judge set Quintana’s bond at $350,000, requiring him to surrender his passport and be fitted with a GPS ankle monitor should he post bail. Additionally, he has been prohibited from driving any vehicle during the legal proceedings.
The community of Pembroke Pines is grappling with the loss of a beloved couple who were cherished by their family and friends. As the case unfolds, many are left questioning how such a tragedy could occur on a day meant for love and celebration.
While Quintana’s defense has yet to present its case, the charges brought against him underscore the severity of the incident. The legal process will determine the consequences he faces, but for the Cardona family, the loss is irreplaceable.
This case serves as a somber reminder of the potential consequences of reckless driving, raising awareness of the importance of road safety and responsible behavior behind the wheel.