Video shows driver before fatal crash

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A defendant learned his punishment for an accident that killed a teenager in Lancaster. We are seeing strong evidence caught on camera , that helped bring the hit-and-run driver to justice.

There wasn't a dry eye in the courtroom. Many families are heartbroken and are still trying to wrap their heads around this so-called preventable tragedy.

A mother's pain could be heard in the courtroom as she sobbed, thinking about her young son.

The mother of 14-year-old Bryce Buchholz said, “I miss my son and I’ll never have him back.”

Bryce Buchholz, who had a passion for BMX bike riding, was killed doing what he loved. Back in May, 23-year-old Michael Ettipio hit Buchholz with his car after a long night of drinking with his friends and co workers.

Right after the crash Ettipio didn't stop, but a good neighbor followed him and brought him back to the scene. Prosecutors say when Ettipio sobered up, he immediately took responsibility for his actions.

During Thursday's sentencing the now 24 year old Lancaster man apologized, and heartbroken family could be heard sobbing in court. Ettipio was sentenced to one to three years in jail.

Bryce's father says he might forgive but he will never forget, his son is gone forever.

This was a preventable crime, says Erie County District Attorney Frank Sedita. That's why he released a shocking surveillance video of Ettipio at the Forestview Restaurant the night of the accident.

Wearing a number 12 jersey, Ettipio falls down drunk and then eventually stumbles to his car. The DA was outraged by Ettipio's actions and also shocked that no one stopped him from getting behind the wheel.

There is a civil suit pending against the restaurant. Meantime there is something you can do to help keep Bryce's memory alive, his father is trying to raise enough money to build a BMX bike park so kids can have a safe place to ride. If you want to help go to flyhighridefreebryce.com .