Lee County teen accused of driving more than 120 mph on State Road 82

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

A 14-year-old driver in Lee County was accused of speeding at 122 mph on State Road 82 near Gateway High School just after midnight on Saturday, with a 19-year-old friend in the passenger seat, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Ronni Valenz, a resident, expressed shock at the situation, saying, "I go like 70, and I feel like I'm flying. So I can't imagine like 122." Valenz also commented on the presence of the older friend, stating, "Something should probably happen to that kid, I don't even know what to say to that; that's even worse."

Gabriela Frey, another resident, emphasized the responsibility of the 19-year-old, saying, "The responsibility lies with the 19-year-old to have made a safer and more responsible decision." Frey also reflected on the potential consequences if it were her child, stating, "I think if it was my 14-year-old, our first topic of conversation would be gratitude that nothing had actually happened. To be very quickly followed by severe consequences."

Michael Ludmerer, a local resident, remarked on the speed, saying, "That's really crazy that they are going that fast around here."

Troopers reported that the minimum age for a learner’s permit is 15 years old, and the 14-year-old is facing charges of speeding and driving without a license. The 19-year-old friend received a ticket for allowing an unauthorized minor to drive, while troopers turned the young driver over to his parents.

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