Vanaman family wants stoplight at Metro Park Ext. to prevent another tragedy

By Gabrielle Sarann

CREATED Oct. 28, 2012

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  • More on a devastating accident that happened this week at the new Metro Park Extension in South Fort Myers. The attorney of the victim, 56-year-old David Vanaman, is calling for a stoplight at the intersection where Vanaman nearly died. Video by fox4now.com

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FORT MYERS, Fla. - As sunday service closed at CrossWay Baptist Church, there was a void. Their pastor, David Vanaman, is fighting for his life at Lee Memorial Hospital. 

"He's not coming out of the coma on his own," said Ben, 32, Vanaman's oldest son.

Ben's brother, Nic, added, "We're just waiting for him to wake up any moment. We're hoping soon."

Surrounded by family and friends, brothers Ben and Nic prayed for their dad's recovery. Vanaman was struck by an SUV last Monday at the intersection of Briarcliff and Metro Park Extension, less than a day after the new road opened. 

"We're significantly devastated," said Nic, 26. "Our lives have been changed forever by this and I wuldn't want anyone to have to go through what we're going through right now."

That's why the family is calling for change. A signal to save lives.

"It's very dangerous," said Nic. "I'd be fearful for anyone trying to go through that intersection."

The 56-year-old father of nine worked three jobs: as a pastor, a bus driver for Lee County Schools and he helped with security at a nearby condo. 

"This is very devastating," explained Ben. "I have four brothers at home right now that are still going to school."

As they pull together and prepare for their father's long road to recovery.

"We're just really rallying together as a family and praying and lifting him up and doing all we can to stay strong in our faith and our belief," concluded Ben.

Just as Vanaman has taught them.