Barbara Ross, 60, was driving northbound on Route 69 (the Litchfield Turnpike) in Bethany, when she struck and killed Robert “Bobby” Weidig Jr., 18, who was walking along the road to a local music and dance event at a home only a couple of hundred feet from the accident scene.
As of early Thursday afternoon, almost 2,000 supporters had signed an online petition in favor of having Ross’ charges increased. New Haven Assistant State’s Attorney Michael Denison said in court Thursday the state anticipates the charges will be increased to manslaughter once the accident reconstruction is completed. He said chemical tests already conducted would support the elevated charge.
“Barbara does give her sincerest and deepest condolences to the family and friends of Robert Weidig," said Attorney Steven Walsh, who represents Ross. "It seems, from everything I have heard about him, he was a good person, with a wonderful spirit.”
Several longtime friends of Weidig, who were in court for Ross’ one minute court appearance, declined comment after the proceedings. The mother of one of Weidig’s closest friends said her son did something special at Bobby’s funeral.
“They were both born in June and they called themselves the Gemini Brothers,” said Rebecca Iannantuoni. “So they had exchanged these Gemini pendants. So, Matthew (her son) insisted on making sure Bobby was buried with the Gemini necklace.” Iannantuoni said that her son may even get a Gemini tattoo in remembrance of his friend.
Ross, a former doctor, has been free since posting a $5,000 bond after being charged with driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol and failure to maintain the proper lane.
