Nationwide — The family of Regina Bright, an African American mother of 2 from Omaha, Nebraska, is outraged after the man who killed her in a car crash was sentenced to just 90 days in jail. They say the punishment feels like a slap on the wrist for a life lost.
Regina Bright, 35, died in March after her Jeep Compass was struck by a speeding Chevy Impala at 42nd and Grover. The driver, 21-year-old Jonathan McDougald, was charged with misdemeanor motor vehicle homicide.
McDougald was recently sentenced in Douglas County court to 90 days in jail and two years of probation. He will also undergo behavioral and mental health evaluations. According to KETV, the judge said McDougald’s actions were intentional and aggressive, fueled by anger.
Friends and family filled the courtroom, hoping for a harsher punishment. Instead, they left heartbroken and frustrated. “He killed my daughter, that’s just not enough,” said Regina’s mother, Veronica Constance-Bright.
Others close to Regina said the ruling made their grief worse. “Today’s been really hard because it feels like a second funeral for her,” said her friend and co-worker, Anna Roark. Sarah Supenski, another friend, added, “It’s just not fair, in any way shape or form, I don’t care what way you cut it.”
In court, McDougald apologized and said he was willing to help however he could. Authorities said Regina had been turning left into a Mega Saver lot when McDougald’s car struck hers. He suffered minor injuries in the crash.
The family continues to mourn Regina, calling the sentence inadequate and a poor reflection of the loss they feel.