Richard Wayne Nyte Jr. has been sentenced to 12 years in prison following his blind plea of guilty to first-degree manslaughter. The sentence comes with the last seven years suspended upon good behavior, in connection with the fatal car accident that killed Michael David McFarland, 30, of Crescent.
Nyte must serve at least 85% of his sentence before being eligible for parole. The Logan County District Attorney’s Office had requested a 12-year sentence, while Nyte’s attorney argued for a similar sentence but with 10 years suspended.
The tragic incident occurred on May 12, 2021, on State Highway 33, west of Hogan Avenue. After drinking and playing golf, Nyte attempted to pass another vehicle in his 2016 Chevrolet Silverado, colliding head-on with McFarland’s car. Investigations revealed that Nyte at one point was traveling at 73 mph, while McFarland was traveling at 62 mph before the impact and reduced to 40 mph just before the crash.
Nyte’s blood alcohol content was .203, more than twice the legal limit.
Related article: Man dies in suspected DUI crash on SH-33
In a previous run-in with the law, Nyte pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol in Oklahoma County in 2006 and was given a deferred sentence that expired in 2018.
The courtroom was filled with nearly 40 of Nyte’s friends and family members, but notably, no one was present for McFarland. However, a poignant letter from McFarland’s father was read by the judge.
The letter described the emotional turmoil and lasting impact the loss of his son had on him, including his struggles with sleep, depression, and the inability to enjoy fishing, a pastime he shared with his son. McFarland’s father, who lost his wife eight months prior to the crash, expressed his grief and urged the judge to impose the maximum sentence allowed by law.
During the hearing, Nyte’s attorney called three character witnesses who portrayed Nyte as a good person who made a tragic mistake. The defense also highlighted Nyte’s personal losses, including the deaths of his child, sister-in-law, niece, and nephew in a 2019 apartment fire, which led to his dependence on alcohol.
Nyte, who has reportedly abstained from alcohol since the crash, has been active in victim impact programs. In a tearful statement, Nyte expressed remorse and took full responsibility for his actions.
Following the sentencing, Nyte was taken into custody by a deputy and led to the jail.
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