SANTA BARBARA – The man accused of hitting and killing 15-year-old Sergio Romero was in court on Friday but for the second time the arraignment was delayed and he did not enter a plea.
Deputy Public Defender Deedrea Edgar asked the court for a continuance as both sides are discussing a possible settlement.
The case is affecting two families of two teenagers. One died as a result of the accident and the other is facing vehicular manslaughter charges.
"Mr. Flores is very, very sorry and we're trying to remain available to the family if there's anything we can do to help them during this time we're available," said Edgar.
15-year-old Sergio Romero's parents, Armando and Guadalupe, are still upset that Flores never apologized to them.
"I know they feel guilt, they feel sad for this tragedy but my thing is why did they never cal us? Even try to reach us at any moment in more than three months, almost four months right now," said Armando Romero.
Flores' public defender said it wasn't advisable until now.
"We remain available anytime to make ourselves available in a private arena and try and accomplish some healing and some sharing of feelings," said Edgar.
"Sergio's parents say it's been difficult since their son's death but that they appreciate the support from the community.
"The fact that all the community got together just to help us in this tragedy, does help us a lot," said his father.
The Romero's would like to see improvements to the intersection where Sergio was killed to make it safer for other pedestrians.
Flores will be back in court in March.
