Mother Of Woman Killed In Crash With Duck Boat Says Daughter's Death 'Left A Big Hole'
BOSTON (CBS) – Martha Warmuth says she has a gaping hole full of pain, grief after the unexpected loss of her daughter.
Allison Warmuth was killed after colliding with a Boston Duck Boat Tours vehicle while riding on a scooter on Beacon and Charles Streets last month.
"Her personality, she saw the good in everything and she's leaving a big hole," Martha told WBZ-TV's Paul Burton in an exclusive interview.
Martha says her 28-year-old daughter loved tough challenges and exercising. She dreamed of competing in a triathlon or on a show like Survivor.
Flowers still mark the spot in area where Allison lost her life on April 30.
Allison's mother says she plans to speak with the duck boat company and to the city to find ways to assure this will never happen again.
"We are really hoping to work with the city and company whose duck boat was involved in this tragedy and see the streets be a lot safer. Would you like to see the duck boats removed," Martha said.
She remains undecided on whether she believes the duck boats should be taken off Boston streets.
"I'm still researching that. If they can be here and be safe that would be one thing. But if they can't, of course I'd like to see them removed," Martha said.
Boston Mayor Marty Walsh says the city will examine the safety of the vehicles after police have finished their investigation.
The duck boat driver, 31-year-old Victor Tavares, is not currently facing criminal charges. But he has been suspended after it was discovered he has a lengthy driving record.
"I don't have a message for him right now. I'm sure he torn up almost as much as we are. I'm sure he never wanted to do that," Martha told WBZ-TV.
Allison's family, which lives in Ohio, says these past weeks have been extremely difficult. But they've received a lot of love and support both back home and in Boston.
"Faith plays such a big role for us," Martha said. "Love your family. You never know when the last day will be."