FHP: Man Who Killed Teen Failed To Activate Breathalyzer Device

Florida state troopers said they arrested Eric Wydra on Thursday in connection with a hit-and-run crash that killed 15-year-old Anthony Rodriguez last year.

WFTV learned from Florida Highway Patrol that Wydra has been convicted of drunken driving twice in the past, but failed to activate the Breathalyzer in his car and fooled people.

Wydra installed it once after the court ordered it, but FHP said he then got a new car, didn't transfer the interlocking device and drove around without it.

"He just chose to circumvent the law," said Kim Montes, FHP Spokeswomen.

Wydra was convicted of drunk driving two times, FHP said, and because of that he was ordered by the court to install the Breathalyzer in his car.

"There is a system in place. They have to physically show the interlock device to the examiner that has been put in place. He shows that, now he's in compliance," said Montes.

That was in May of 2010, but last June, FHP said Wydra decided to stop going to get checkups to verify he had the interlocking device in his car.

"In June, he didn't show up to the vendor. The vendor notified him that if he didn't come down and show them, the interlock device would be turned off, therefor the car would not be able to start," said Montes

Investigators said Wydra ignored everyone, got rid of the car with the Breathalyzer, and got a Pontiac Grand-Am.

Investigators said it was the Pontiac that Wydra was driving when he allegedly slammed into Rodriguez in November, killing him. Wydra was arrested on Thursday and charged with leaving the scene of the crash.

FHP said at the time of the crash, Wydra didn't even have a license because it was revoked.

"We have 100,000 drivers that are suspended at this time and should not be behind the wheel and this is an ongoing problem," Montes said.

Wydra bonded out of jail late Thursday night. WFTV went to his home on Friday, but no one answered the door.

Drivers who are court ordered have to pay $160 to install the device, and then pay $76 a month for a service fee.