Man Convicted in Deadly 2023 Motorcycle Crash That Killed 13-Year-Old on 28th Street North
Carlos Fernandez, 23, was convicted in Pinellas County Court for his role in a crash that killed 13-year-old Ethan Martin on January 29, 2023. Fernandez was found guilty of vehicular homicide, reckless driving causing serious bodily injury, street racing, and operating a motorcycle without a proper endorsement.
The crash occurred at approximately 12:35 a.m. as Fernandez rode a black Suzuki motorcycle southbound on 28th Street North at a high rate of speed. As he crossed 109th Avenue North, the motorcycle struck Ethan Martin, who was crossing the street. Martin died at the scene. Fernandez was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
Investigators determined Fernandez was participating in an illegal street racing and exhibition of speed event at the time of the incident. Ethan Martin had attended the event with his father, who was not injured.
Fernandez’s sentencing is scheduled for 1:45 p.m. on June 2.