Staff report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Kenyata Markeisha Tucker, 33, has been given a sentence of one year in jail and four years of probation after pleading no contest to reckless driving resulting in serious injury.

On August 29, 2020, around 10:20 p.m., Tucker was driving a minivan on State Road 20, eastbound near SE 60th Terrace. Her blood alcohol level was recorded at 0.055 g/100mL, which is below the legal limit of 0.08 g/100mL. The Florida Highway Patrol’s investigation showed that she moved into the right lane on a left-hand curve when the road was wet and lost control of the vehicle. The van spun off the road and collided with several trees. Tucker and the front-seat passenger were taken to a nearby hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening, but the passenger in the back seat was declared dead at the scene.

After being informed of her rights, the passenger identified Tucker as the driver, mentioning that the road conditions were wet, but she couldn’t recall more details as she had been sleeping when the accident occurred.

Tucker, once informed of her rights, admitted to driving and changing lanes because a car was approaching from behind. She sped up and moved lanes to avoid the other vehicle but lost control due to the slippery road. She believed her speed was between 60-70 mph during the incident. Additionally, she noted that she and the passenger (who was asleep) were having a disagreement over the radio’s operation. She acknowledged, “I should have been more attentive.”

A DNA analysis reportedly showed that Tucker’s DNA was found on the steering wheel airbag.

Speed calculations determined that the minivan was traveling between 96.8 and 103.4 mph on a roadway with a 65-mph speed limit.

A charge of vehicular homicide was issued in July 2022, and in November 2024, Tucker pleaded no contest to reckless driving resulting in serious bodily harm, a lesser charge. The plea agreement outlined a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

Her sentencing was postponed owing to a medical issue. On September 8, Judge William Davis sentenced her to 364 days in jail, accounting for 3 days already served, followed by four years of probation. Tucker must also complete a driver improvement course and pay $7,500 in restitution to the victim’s family for funeral expenses.