Parents of injured soccer player send thanks

TAMPA -- The parents of a teen soccer player severely injured when a car struck her and fatally injured a teammate Friday night said today their daughter's condition has improved and send their thanks to the Tampa Bay community for its concern.

William and Vicky Gruber, parents of Brittany Gruber, who turned 18 today, issued a written statement through a spokeswoman for St. Joseph's Children's Hospital in Tampa, where Gruber is recovering.

Gruber and Katy Grogan, 18, had come to Tampa for a weekend soccer tournament at Ed Radice Park. They were crossing Dale Mabry Highway about 10 p.m. Friday, near their Waters Avenue hotel, when a car hit them. The driver, Aaron M. Carr, 23, of Temple Terrace, has not been charged. The Florida Highway Patrol is still investigating the accident.

William and Vicky Gruber released the following statement:

"We would like to thank emergency responders and police at the scene on Friday night. We are very grateful for the amount of support we have received from our friends, family and the Tampa Bay community during this difficult time. Brittany is in fair condition, but she is improving with every passing minute. The doctors and nurses at St. Joseph's Children's Hospital are doing everything possible to care for her and help our family during this time. While we understand the interest in Brittany's story and are thankful for the concern about her well-being, we request that you respect our family's privacy. At this time we would also like to remind you that the details of Friday night's events are under investigation. We send our prayers and love to the Grogan family."

Grogan died from her injuries. Gruber suffered several head injuries.

They played soccer together for the FC New York United Tigers. Team coach Saul Cabarcas reported Sunday that Gruber had come out of a coma and was talking and joking in her hospital room.

- Kevin Graham, Times staff writer