Melbourne, FL: A destination wedding took a tragic turn when the groom’s best man, Andrew ‘Drew’ Sofranko, aged 23, lost his life in a hit-and-run accident on the early morning of Christmas Day. According to a report by the Melbourne Police, the incident occurred as he attempted to cross South Harbor City Boulevard near Strawbridge Avenue. The paramedics arrived on the scene but were unable to save him. The police are still looking for the driver.
Douglas Sofranko, Drew’s father, shared, “The doctor mentioned that he likely passed away instantly upon impact. He had no pulse when the paramedics arrived. While it offers some small comfort that he didn’t experience any pain, it doesn’t alleviate the overall grief.”
Originally from Pennsylvania, Andrew Sofranko was in Melbourne to celebrate his father and stepmother’s wedding. Just hours before the tragedy, he delivered a heartfelt best-man speech. In his speech, Drew said, “Here’s to a marriage that not only withstands the test of time but also flourishes with each passing day. Dad, you’ve been my hero and guide, and now witnessing you take this step with such grace and happiness fills my heart with immense joy.”
Now, the Sofranko family’s happiness has turned into a devastating ordeal. Douglas Sofranko expressed, “It went from being essentially a dream vacation to an absolute nightmare.”
Their plans for a joyful wedding celebration and honeymoon have transformed into the sad task of making funeral arrangements and seeking justice for Drew’s alleged assailant. “We have learned that the vehicle involved was a white four-door Chevrolet,” Douglas Sofranko stated. Sofranko is asking that if anyone is aware of someone in the area with a white, four-door Chevrolet showing signs of damage, please contact the Melbourne Police Department and provide them with this information.
The family is burdened not only by their grief but also by the agonizing wait for someone to come forward. Drew’s stepmother, Danell Sofranko, remarked, “I can’t even fathom the level of guilt they must be experiencing. We hope that they listen to their conscience and do the right thing, allowing us to attain justice for Drew.”