HOWELL (WWJ) -- The family of a 16-year-old killed in a car crash in Howell is using her story to inspire others.
Gypsy Simonyi was killed on the night of September 15, 2025 while turning onto Oak Grove Road from Oak Meadows Boulevard. The investigation found that the Dodge Charger that hit her was traveling 118 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone. 18-year-old Isaac Mclean was sentenced to three to 15 years in prison in early May for causing the crash.
Gypsy’s family has launched a change.org petition for Gypsy’s Law as a way to protect others from the dangers of reckless driving. The law would add a new category to the charge and strengthen the punishments for those found guilty of “deadly reckless driving.”
Deadly reckless driving would include driving over twice the posted speed limit, risky behaviors, including illegal drag racing or filming drag racing, and driving "high-performance vehicles" without proper licensing.
High-performance vehicles, such as muscle cars, would require a special license for people under 25-years-old. Proponents of the law said the human brain doesn't finish developing until around 25-years-old, meaning there is a higher chance for risky driving behaviors in such cars.
Her family said they also want to share Gypsy's love of helping others.
They're starting a non-profit, Wings of Gypsy, to honor her desire “for more care and kindness in the world." The wings that make up the organization include Gypsy’s Law, caring for animals and supporting those who are grieving.
Animals were an important part of Gypsy's life. Some of the future plans for the organization include celebrating her birthday, April 13, by offering reduced pet adoption fees for “Gypsy’s Love Bugs.” They said they would also have a special focus on supporting aging and terminal pets.
Clutch and Lola's Repair & Care would serve as the base for care offered through the organization. Spaces would be available for families dealing with the loss of a pet, including a memorial wall and reflection ponds. Pets would have areas to recover in safety and comfort and areas for play.
Gypsy's Light would focus on supporting those dealing with mental health and grief. Families and teens would have the opportunity to gather together during retreats. Longer-term goals include training therapy dogs, youth volunteer programs and establishing scholarships in Gypsy's name.
Wings of Gypsy is in its beginning stages, with plans to expand over the next five years. Anyone interested in getting involved is encouraged to contact the organization.
