PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — The mother of an 18-year-old killed in a crash is reminding other drivers to be safe and avoid distracted driving.

  • 18-year-old killed in crash on Curley Street
  • Kodie Jauss lost control of vehicle, overturned
  • Mother says he was texting, not wearing seat belt

The crash happened on Curley Street early Monday afternoon, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. 

FHP troopers said Kodie Jauss was traveling southbound on the street, approaching Curley Road, at about 1:12 p.m. when he lost control of his 1998 Toyota Tocoma. 

Jauss ended up crossing the street and entering the east shoulder before his truck overturned. 

Troopers said Jauss suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. 

His mother, Christina Stackhouse, said her son wasn't wearing his seatbelt and was texting just before the crash.

"If he was wearing his seatbelt he may be here with me today," Stackhouse said. 

She wants to remind other drivers to be safe on the road, especially when it comes to distracted driving, so no one has to go through what she is.

"I'm devastated. And I'm absolutely lost. I've lost my hero and my best friend," she said.

She and other friends and family started a memorial for Kodie at the spot where he died. There are dozens of flowers, pictures and crosses left there. 

No other vehicles were involved in the crash, and according to the report, alcohol was not a factor in the crash. 

No other information has been released.  The investigation remains ongoing.