Moms take a stand against street racing in Lakeland

LAKELAND (FOX 13) - Two Polk County mothers who lost their children in a street racing crash are hitting the streets in an effort to stop another tragedy. They plan to hold a rally once a month in different places to bring attention to just how deadly street racing can be.

“We want to make sure we keep the memories of our children alive,” said Katasha Ellison.

Ellison lost her daughter, Brittany when a street-racer crossed the center line on U.S. 98 North two years ago.

“I know she would be proud of me, just going out there, fighting for her,” Elliston said.

CJ Stewart and his girlfriend, Katie Pitock, also died when the street racer's car hit the one they and their high school friend, Brittany, were in.

“If you make the wrong choices, it’s over,” CJ’s mom, Donna Collogan, told FOX 13.

The driver of the other vehicle, Michael Marrero, just accepted a plea deal and will spend the next 30 years in prison.

Along with taking to the streets, the women want to raise the penalty for street racing and start an organization, similar to MADD, to try and bring the problem under control.

Last month they rallied at the crash site. In August they plan to do it at the same location again to mark Brittany’s birthday.