Marco Island Teen Cited After Allegedly Driving 71 MPH in 35 MPH Zone, Says He Was ‘Late for Fishing’

A 16-year-old driver was stopped on Marco Island after allegedly traveling 71 mph in a posted 35 mph zone, later telling the officer he was speeding because he was late for a fishing trip.

According to the Marco Island Police Department, Officer Annicelli observed the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and subsequently confirmed the vehicle’s speed at 69 mph on radar. The driver was cited for traveling 71 mph in the 35 mph speed zone.

Because the teen was allegedly driving more than 30 mph over the posted speed limit, Florida law requires a mandatory court appearance.

Police said the incident highlights the potentially devastating consequences of excessive speeding.

“At 71 mph, if that vehicle had struck another vehicle, a bicyclist, or a pedestrian, there is a very real possibility someone would have been killed or suffered life-altering injuries,” the department said.

The department added that officers never want to deliver the heartbreaking news that a loved one is not coming home because another driver chose to travel at such a dangerous speed.

Officials are encouraging parents to have conversations with their teenage drivers about the importance of safe driving habits. They noted that young drivers are still gaining experience behind the wheel and that the habits they develop now can last a lifetime.

Police emphasized that the message applies to drivers of all ages.

“We all make mistakes from time to time, but driving 71 mph in a 35 mph zone isn’t a momentary lapse in judgment. It’s a deliberate choice that puts everyone else on the road at risk,” the department said.

The Marco Island Police Department is urging motorists to slow down and remember that no destination is worth risking a life.

“Whatever you’re rushing to get to can wait. Someone’s life cannot.”