Family closer to new law to honor 8-year-old killed by driver
NORTH WEBSTER, Ind.-- It's been over six months since Gidieon was struck and killed by 24-year-old Raven Loubert.
Now, December 19th marks a hopeful day for the cook family.
“It’s been a long time coming I think. When something like a tragedy that we’ve experienced happens, you kind of feel defeated," said Gidieons grandmother, Peggy Cook.
Cook feels defeated after losing her 8-year-old grandson in June. Then in October, a grand jury ruled that Loubert would face no charges for the Gidieons death.
But Thursday evening, a visit from an Indiana State Representative might change that in the future.
“When I heard that the family was reaching out to their legislatures I thought, I have to hear this first hand," said Indiana State Representative, Curt Nisly.
After hearing the Cook family's story on ABC57 News Tuesday night, Representative Curt Nisly had to hear it for himself.
Saying he knows tragedy like Giddieons all too well.
“My older sister was killed in a car accident when she was 13," shared Nisly.
Together, the family and Representative Nisly began to map out what new laws and consequences Gidieons death could spark.
“We’ve talked about changing the drivers manual, changing the consequences, to pedestrians on a cross walk or anywhere. Upgrading signage around schools," said Nisly.
State lawmakers won't start another session until January, so the family knows nothing will happen right away.
They think, no matter what, it'll be worth it.
“I do have a smile on my face. I’m very hopeful that we’re going to get some things done. People are going to be saved. And that’s the goal," said Cook.
The Cooks hope that Gidieons Law, when created, will pass and lives will be saved.