Prepare for the fifth edition of the Local Memorial Cruise commemorating Jessica Montague’s life, scheduled for Tuesday. Participants with vehicles of all types are encouraged to assemble at 6 p.m. at Reflection Park, located at 1901 U.S. 27 in Sebring.
This annual cruise is a heartfelt tribute to Jessica Montague, who, along with four other women, tragically lost their lives at the SunTrust Bank Midtown Branch on January 23, 2019. While the event is named in Montague’s honor, it serves as a poignant remembrance for all the victims of that fateful day.
The other women, recognized as the “#Sebring5,” include SunTrust employees Ana Pinon-Williams, Debra Cook, Marisol Lopez, and bank customer Cynthia Watson. Their collective memory has inspired the social media hashtag, “Sebring Strong.”
At 6:30 p.m., a procession of cars, trucks, and motorcycles will depart from Reflection Park, weaving through downtown Sebring and Avon Park before concluding at Avon Park Pediatrics, located at the intersection of Stryker Road and U.S. 27.
Jessica Montague’s passion for cars, particularly Mustangs, is reflected in her electric blue vehicle, which her husband Jermaine has customized. Whether driven or transported on Jermaine’s tow truck, Jessica’s Mustang is an integral part of the memorial cruise.
Expressing the desire to perpetuate Jessica’s memory and honor the other women, Jessica’s best friend, Daffne Cruz, emphasizes the positive impact of the annual ride on community cohesion. The event brings the community together to celebrate the lives of these women and foster unity.