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Letter to the editor

'Safe' driver killed in three-car crash

The Largo grandmother died after a car reportedly ran a red light and hit hers.

By KAMEEL STANLEY
Published July 19, 2007

LARGO - Rose Marie Tuttle was the safest driver her children knew.

She always reminded them to avoid distractions and keep their eyes on the road. Family members joked she sometimes drove too slow.

"She would make us hang up our cell phones even if she was talking to us," said her daughter, Gina Reinoso.

Tuttle, 61, of Largo, died Tuesday after she was involved in a three-car crash that also left three others seriously injured.

Just after 6 p.m., Tuttle was traveling north on 101st Street in her silver 2007 Toyota Camry.

As she drove through the Ulmerton Road intersection, a 2005 Mercedes-Benz driven by 48-year-old John S. Houts of Largo struck her car, police said.

The impact caused Tuttle's car to slide into the path of a 1992 Mazda Miata headed south on 101st Street. The impact flipped the Camry onto its roof.

"The Camry was only a month old," said Largo police Sgt. George Edmiston. "It had all the latest safety equipment."

Witnesses told police the Mercedes, which had been traveling west on Ulmerton Road, had been driving recklessly.

"There were several witnesses that were able to tell us about the erratic driving," Edmiston said. "He (Houts) blew a red light that had been red for 10 to 15 seconds."

The Mazda's driver, Cynthia R. Boyvey, 53, and her passenger, Allen J. Brown, 45, both of Largo, suffered serious injuries and were taken to a local hospital. Hout also went to a local hospital.

All three are expected to survive, police said.

Though no charges had been filed Wednesday, the accident remains under investigation, Edmiston said.

Meanwhile, Tuttle's family was left in shock.

"She was like the rock of the family," Reinoso said. "She did nothing wrong and she's the one paying the price."

Tuttle worked for Pinellas County schools in the payroll department, her family said. She loved playing racquetball and spending time with her four grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Ron, two daughters and a son.

Fast Facts:

Paying respects

A memorial service is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday at Largo Alliance Church, 1633 Lake Ave NE.

[Last modified July 18, 2007, 22:07:49]