11 hours ago
Family remembers daughter who died in 2021 crash as DUI case approaches end
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — A mother who has waited years for justice after her daughter was killed in a 2021 crash by an accused drunk driver says a chapter is closing on the case.
24-year-old Hannah Parton and 47-year-old Arlene Velasquez were killed in the crash.
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'You know, she just was that soft-natured young lady that wanted everyone to do well,' Sheila Smith said about her daughter Hannah.
Smith said the families waited almost a year to see movement in the case. In October 2022, Jacob Stephens was charged with reckless murder and driving under the influence.
'It's easy to get bitter,' Smith said. 'It's easy to feel like you're being ignored. It's just hard. You know, losing Hannah was hard enough. It's still so hard.'
Stephens is set to go to trial next week, but it is possible he will never appear in front of a jury. Smith said the District Attorney's Office told her Stephens is expected to take a plea deal.
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'I've also done a lot of research in three and a half years waiting for justice, and I feel like it's probably the best outcome,' Smith said.
Smith said no amount of prison time Stephens could serve would bring her daughter back. After years of grief, she wants to find a sense of normalcy in her life, living each day for Hannah.
'A lot has been lifted after three and a half years of complete chaos and uncertainty,' Smith said. 'Heartbreak. The continued heartbreak. Yeah, it's nice to finally be able to put it to a close.'
The Madison County District Attorney's Office told News 19 that plea discussions have focused on Stephens serving 30 years in prison.
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