David Pleasant Death and Obituary – A trial date has been set for Maurice Yarbrough, the individual accused of causing the death of a Memphis firefighter, David Pleasant, in a vehicular crash in 2022. Yarbrough is facing several serious charges, including vehicular homicide and driving under the influence (DUI). The tragic incident occurred when Pleasant, a veteran firefighter with over 30 years of service, was responding to an emergency call. His fire truck was struck by Yarbrough’s vehicle, which allegedly ran a red light while impaired.
The collision resulted in the death of David Pleasant, who had dedicated much of his life to serving the Memphis community. As a firefighter with 32 years of experience, Pleasant was highly regarded by his peers, friends, and family. Along with Pleasant’s death, three other firefighters were also injured in the crash. One of them was forced to retire due to the severe medical repercussions of the incident, further highlighting the far-reaching consequences of Yarbrough’s actions.
In the wake of the crash, the family of David Pleasant has been outspoken in their pursuit of justice. Following Yarbrough’s court appearance on Thursday, Pleasant’s daughters, Michelle and Anna Pleasant, expressed a sense of progress in the case. Michelle remarked that while the resolution may not come immediately, the establishment of a trial date indicates that the wheels of justice are turning. “It appears that we are moving closer to closure in this case,” she said. “While I wouldn’t say it will happen soon, it is on the horizon. We are genuinely relieved that a trial date has been set.”
The legal proceedings surrounding this case have been complicated, with earlier discussions focusing on a potential plea deal. Initially, Yarbrough was not scheduled for a trial, as the District Attorney’s office had proposed an eight-year plea agreement. However, this offer was ultimately rescinded, a decision that was met with mixed emotions by the Pleasant family. Anna Pleasant, David’s other daughter, expressed her strong belief that the plea deal was unfair and inadequate given the severity of the incident. “That was a significant issue for us because not only was our father killed, but three other firefighters were severely injured, and they continue to deal with the repercussions of that incident two years later,” Anna stated.
The crash that killed David Pleasant and injured three other firefighters has not only left a lasting emotional impact on the family but has also had long-term effects on the firefighting community. One of the injured firefighters, who sustained debilitating injuries, had to retire from the profession he loved. This highlights the ongoing struggle faced by those affected by the incident. The Pleasant family hopes that the trial will give them an opportunity to address the broader impact of the crash, particularly in regards to the injuries sustained by the other firefighters.
The charge of vehicular homicide due to intoxication carries a potential sentence of 8 to 12 years for Yarbrough. As the trial approaches, the Pleasant family remains hopeful that justice will be served for both their father and the other injured firefighters. David Pleasant’s legacy as a dedicated firefighter who spent over three decades serving his community is one that will endure, and the family continues to honor his memory as they seek justice in this tragic case.
