Family Speaks Out Following Arrest in Crash That Claimed Lives of Cherished Ocala Radio Hosts

OCALA, Fla. – Authorities have arrested a man in connection with a tragic crash that resulted in the deaths of two cherished Ocala radio personalities. 

The incident took place on July 17, claiming the lives of Lawrence “Larry” Whitler and Robin MacBlane on State Road 200 near Southwest 103rd Street Road.

As reported by the FHP, Christopher Cheatham, aged 52, was taken into custody on October 9 and has been charged with two counts of DUI manslaughter.

Whitler and MacBlane were well-known for hosting a morning show on 96.3 for almost two decades. 

Larry’s older brother, Thomas Whitler, expressed his appreciation for some form of closure, though he acknowledged it does not alleviate the heartache. 

“I was not happy it happened, the man obviously made a poor decision,” said Thomas Whitler. 

He said the pair often went to the Ocala Downtown Square and he has fond memories of those moments. 

“Robin would play her mandolin and Larry would play his guitar, they also painted and people would give them donations,” he said. 

Thomas Whitler added how his brother was special and always made people smile. 

“He would brighten up your day just with his great attitude, his love of life and his love of everything,” he said. 

Cheatham is currently held without bond at the Marion County jail.

Thomas Whitler said there hasn’t been a day that’s gone by the duo are not missed. 

“We need more people like Larry and Robin.” Whitler noted, “The world is just a worse place without them.”