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Plant City Teen 'Lit Up Every Room,' Mom Says

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By CHRISTIAN M. WADE, The Tampa Tribune

and JEFF PATTERSON, News Channel 8

Published: October 7, 2008

PLANT CITY - Brooke McDonald was remembered Monday as an average fun-loving teenager with a "beautiful smile" that "lit up every room she walked into."

In a tearful interview at her Plant City home, Barbara McDonald said her daughter had some personal problems in her life recently but was working through them.

"She was at the wrong place at the wrong time," McDonald said. "We miss her so much."

Brooke McDonald, 17, was with a small group of friends at a party Saturday night in an apartment on J. Arden May Boulevard when someone pulled out a .44-caliber revolver.

Eventually, according to a police report, the loaded weapon found its way into Thomas Grieco's hands. He pointed the gun at Brooke McDonald's head, apparently not knowing it was loaded, and pulled the trigger. At this point, Plant City police think the fatal shooting was accidental.

"We don't believe this was an intentional act," Sgt. Jim Shultz said.

A candlelight vigil for the Plant City High School student was scheduled for Monday night at the polo field in Walden Park but was postponed because of weather.

Grieco, 20, has been charged with second-degree manslaughter. He is being held without bail at Orient Road Jail following Monday's court appearance.

A visitation for family and friends will be held Thursday from 2 to 3 p.m. followed by a funeral at Wells Memorial Chapel at 1903 W. Reynolds St. in Plant City.

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