Kennard Woman Pleads Guilty After Deadly DUI Crash

On January 18, 2024, Dava Jayenel Turney, 36, of Kennard, Texas, was driving drunk northbound on State Highway 19 in Houston County. She was in a 2012 Buick Enclave at 9:20 PM and failed to maintain her lane.

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According to KTRE, the crash report stated that she then hit a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado. The vehicle was being driven by Esperanza Lafreniere Alfred, 78, of Houston. Alfred died at the scene near State Highway 19 and FM 231.

According to her obituary, Alfred was a mother of 3 and had a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She also took pride in being a journeyman carpenter before retiring. She was strong in her Catholic faith, enjoyed spending time with her children, and building houses.

Kennard Woman Pleaded Guilty To Intoxicated Manslaughter

Monday, Dava Turney pleaded guilty to charges of intoxicated manslaughter and was sentenced to 10 years' probation. Turney must also enter a felony punishment substance abuse facility immediately.

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She was booked into the Houston County Jail under the second-degree felony charges, as she awaits transfer to the facility. According to the police report at the time of the accident, a deputy smelled alcohol coming from the interior of Turney's vehicle.

Intoxicated manslaughter is a much more severe charge in Texas than a DWI. It is considered a second-degree felony, which she was charged with.

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Guilty verdicts can lead to higher prison sentences ranging from 2 -20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Community service and other additional sentences, such as attending a substance abuse facility, could be required, as in this case.