The guilty plea of Jayana Webb in the deaths of two Pennsylvania State Troopers, Branden Sisca and Martin Mack, and a man they were assisting on I-95 in South Philadelphia has been an emotional and heartbreaking process for the families of the victims. Webb admitted to being under the influence of alcohol when she struck the troopers and the man, Reyes Rivera Oliveras. She pleaded guilty to three counts of 3rd-degree murder and driving under the influence, ultimately being sentenced to 27 ½ to 60 years in prison.
The District Attorney, Larry Krasner, described the resolution as a “just” one and highlighted the skill of the investigation and prosecution teams in avoiding a jury trial that could have been retraumatizing for the families. Prosecutors stated that Webb had tweeted two seconds before the crash and had a blood alcohol content nearly three times the legal limit. Webb apologized in court before she was sentenced, indicating her desire to accept responsibility for her actions.
While Webb will remain on house arrest until the birth of her baby in February, the families of the victims are focused on moving forward and finding peace and comfort. The judge has stated that once the baby is born, Webb will have very few days left before serving her prison sentence. This tragic incident has drawn a conclusion in the courtroom, but the impact on the families of the victims will continue for years to come.