Man charged in fatal car crash plans to take plea deal: reports

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A family’s fight for justice continues as the man accused of killing their loved one prepares to take a plea deal.

56-year-old Darren Woods was killed by a speeding driver at the intersection of Hickory Hill and Raines Road on October 9, 2021.

Police say Jaddarius Kent is responsible for the crash. Crime reports state Kent was driving at a speed of 118 MPH in a Dodge Challenger. The speed limit in the area is 45 MPH.

“It’s a void that will never be filled,” said Darren Woods Jr., the son of the victim. “We’re just making sure he serves his full time and do really what he’s supposed to do which is take responsibility for his actions.”

Woods’ family has been waiting three years for justice.

Kent was scheduled to appear in court Thursday morning for what would have been one of his final court dates. However, that hearing was rescheduled because there was no room on the judge’s docket.

According to prosecutors and the defense in court, Kent had agreed to enter a plea of guilty to one count of reckless vehicular homicide and reckless aggravated assault.

Prosecutor Kevin McAlpin says the state is pushing for Kent to serve three years on the first count and two years on the second. Both would run concurrently.

McAlpin says vehicular homicide is a class c felony which usually carries anywhere from three to 6 years. However, that’s only if you don’t have any prior convictions.

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“Felt like, looking at the facts, he doesn’t have a prior record at all. That probably even if we went to trial, we would end up at the three years,” McAlpin said.

Woods family says they are not pleased with how this case has been going.

“Right now it still feels like it’s dodging accountability,” Woods’ son said.

Prosecutors say Kent’s defense will likely ask for a lighter sentence. Ultimately, the final decision will rest with the judge on his next court date.

“We’re asking for three years in prison, and he will be asking for something less than that. And the judge will hear all the proof and make a decision based upon what the law says she’s supposed to do,” McAlpin said.

Kent is due back in court on October 1.

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