Seeking Justice and Healing in Charleston
In the beautiful city of Charleston, South Carolina, a somber question hangs in the air as families grapple with unimaginable loss. The families of Lizzy Zito and Arianna Gamber, two young women tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident on April 28, are urging the public for any assistance regarding the incident that changed their lives forever.
Since the fateful day of the crash, both families have returned to Charleston multiple times, not just to visit the site where their daughters died but also to gather for deeply personal moments. They dedicated a roadside memorial to honor Lizzy and Arianna and came together to mark what should have been their 21st birthdays. This year also held bittersweet significance as Lizzy was set to graduate with a degree in psychology from the College of Charleston. Sadly, these life milestones were overshadowed by heartache.
Looking for Answers
As they navigate their grief, the families attended a preliminary hearing in July for the two men charged in connection with the hit-and-run, Max Gentilin and Seth Carlson. Gentilin is facing two counts of leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death, while Carlson faces four serious charges, including two counts of reckless homicide. At the hearing, the court denied a motion to dismiss or change the charges against them.
Despite these developments, Lizzy and Arianna’s families are still desperate for additional information. Nicole Gamber, Arianna’s mom, says, “You can send in your videos, your snaps, your pictures. I know they are out there. I know that the guys that were out and that haven’t been made accountable yet that there is more evidence.” She encourages anyone with information to reach out to the Charleston Police Department and provide any tips they might have.
With tears in his eyes, Frank Zito, Lizzy’s father, expressed the crushing reality of loss, stating, “They’re never coming home again. We cry every night because they’re not there. Find it in your heart to do the right thing. If you can help with this we’d appreciate it.” Frank shared how the city that was once a place of joy and summer adventures now feels foreign and painful. “It’s a different taste knowing she passed away here,” he lamented.
Safety Improvements on the Horizon
Amid their grief, both families are thankful for upcoming safety improvements along Morrison Drive, which include a pedestrian crossing and a raised median. Nicole expressed her mixed emotions, saying, “We’re grateful that the plans are coming together and plan for it to come to fruition. It’s super heartbreaking that it took this tragedy.” Meanwhile, Frank pledged to continue advocating for better safety conditions to prevent further tragedies. “If we can save a hundred lives, a thousand lives… we have to make as much positive out of it as we can,” he stated.
A Memorial to Remember
In an effort to remember the two women’s stories, the families are adding a special touch to their roadside memorial. It will feature a barcode that passersby can scan to learn more about Lizzy and Arianna. Frank hopes this initiative might jog memories for witnesses: “If something can come to light from this or this can help people learn and say ‘oh, you know what maybe I shouldn’t do this.’”
Working alongside Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), the families are also reaching out to the community. An event is planned for November 16, where they will share Lizzy and Arianna’s stories and gather support for safer roads. “If there is anything out there you can do please, please, please from the bottom of your heart send it in,” urged Erin Bouknight, a victim advocate for MADD.
Future Events for Community Involvement
In remembrance of their daughters, they’re planning a memorial concert in April 2025, either in Simpsonville or Greenville, where Lizzy and Arianna grew up, with proceeds benefiting MADD. Nicole emphasized, “We’re not going anywhere. We are here and we’re going to keep pleading with the community.” It’s a heartbreaking but hopeful endeavor as they strive to keep the memory of Lizzy and Arianna alive while seeking justice.
As the families continue to navigate this painful chapter in their lives, Charleston’s community spirit and support could be a pivotal force for healing and change.
