MIAMI GARDENS – The mother of a man accused of causing a crash that killed four people, including 3 children, said he was experiencing a “manic” episode, but police said he was under the influence and driving recklessly.
Antonio Wilcox Jr., 25, was speeding and had alcohol in his system when his SUV slammed into a car carrying three adults and five children, Miami Gardens Police Executive Officer Emmanuel Jeanty said Tuesday.
“Mr. Wilcox made a conscious decision to get in that vehicle and drive in a reckless manner with no regard for human life,” Jeanty said during a press conference.
Mom: Son struggles with mental illness
Wilcox’s mother, Tiffany Faulk, told CBS News Miami that her son, who was living in a shelter in Naples, has suffered from schizophrenia since he was 18.
“My son has been dealing with demons a long time,” Faulk said, adding that Wilcox does not drink and “was not drunk” at the time of the crash. She believes he had a manic episode.
Prior arrests, pending charges
According to Collier County records, Wilcox was arrested for criminal mischief five years ago, and a battery charge against him was dismissed in 2022.
Wilcox is currently hospitalized with injuries from the crash. Once released, he will face four counts of vehicular homicide, police said.
