January 20th, 2011 Cathy Cruz Marrero told ABC News that was walking through the Berkshire Mall in Reading, Pa when she fell into the mall fountain because she was distracted because she was texting.
Cathy said she was considering suing the mall because “nobody went to my aid.”
Her video clip went viral just two days after her fall because mall security leaked the clip via cell phone to YouTube.
Those responsible for the leak have been fired.
Cathy looked somber and embarrassed in her ABC interview with her attorney by her side.
Blogger “Tie” asks, “Did anyone know her name BEFORE this lawsuit? IF not, they do now.”
As fate would have it, Cathy has more issues than texting herself into a fountain. She also has criminal charges against her for unrelated events, such as identity theft/fraud, four convicted retail theft charges, as well as a hit-and-run charge for hitting a parked car.
Cathy Marrero, as of January 23rd, has officially dropped her suit against the Berkshire Mall.
This incident highlights the dangers and issues that arise due to being distracted.
Some states are looking at making laws prohibiting the use of cell phones, iPods, and the like while walking.
While this may seem an extreme measure, the incidence of hazard and even death while being distracted are equally extreme.
For example, on March 16, 2010 a man was jogging on the beach near Palmetto Dunes in Georgia and was struck by a plane that made an emergency landing on the beach.
Lawyers argue that he would still be alive if he was not distracted by his device.
On July 1, 2008 California banned all cell phone use while driving because of the rising number of phone-related accidents on the road.
In California the fine for the first offense is $20 and $50 for every time thereafter.
While driving to Shasta College people are seen texting and talking every morning.
People need to recognize the danger of doing so to avoid the damage that can be caused to self, others and property.
Simply pulling to the side of an authorized section of road or into a parking lot would suffice.
Humorous incidents like “Fountain Lady” are great for a quick laugh, but nobody enjoys reading about a death because someone else was being careless.
Cathy had this to say to the younger generation, “Do not text and walk…It can happen anywhere.”
Good point there!
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