Murphy’s father, Dwayne has been a firefighter for over 30 years. He said his son’s death has made it difficult for him to continue in his job.
“It’s affected my ability to help people. It’s been two years and I’m hoping I’ll get over it and be able to do that again,” Dwayne Murphy said.
Today is the sentencing of Colby Blake — a firefighter from Daviess County who is charged with hitting and killing fellow firefighter Kendall Murphy in 2017. pic.twitter.com/a31rE1D3nj
— Taylor Johnson WTWO (@NewsladyTay) August 7, 2019
Emotions ran high in the Daviess County Courthouse, as witnesses for the defense and prosecution took the stand.
Police found Blake had a blood alcohol content level of .21% on the night of the accident.
Blake served 31 days in jail before being placed on house arrest.
Witnesses for Colby Blake spoke highly of his character and his willingness to help others.
The first witness called to the stand is Colby Blake’s manager at Hillcrest Farm Supply. He says Colby has always been a great employee, always willing to help. He says Colby would still have a job with them even after sentencing.
— Taylor Johnson WTWO (@NewsladyTay) August 7, 2019
While on the stand, Kendall Murphy’s family stated they wanted to see Blake serve more time.
Colby Blake took the stand and shared that he and Kendall knew each other for many years. He said they were in the high school band together.
Kendall’s parents testified they visited Blake in jail after the accident and visited him again during the Christmas season to extend their forgiveness.
As Kendall’s family and fiancee, Jennifer Padgett, took the stand they emphasized their disappointment that Blake did not reach out to them as they did for him.
Jessica says she sees no remorse in Colby Blake. She believes he deserves more than he maximum of 6 years. ‘Six years is up and he’s free. I’m not free.’
— Taylor Johnson WTWO (@NewsladyTay) August 7, 2019
In the final statements, Blake’s lawyer stated Blake was remorseful and apologetic. He added that per the legal system, Blake was advised not to contact the family while charges were pending.
Blake’s lawyer also recommended he earn his way back into society through programs such as alcoholic anonymous and speaking to age-appropriate students about his experiences.
The prosecution recommended prison time.
Blake addressed the Murphy family with an apology. He said he’s ready to move on from that night and move on with his life.
Kendall Murphy’s sister read a final statement on his behalf.
The judge sentenced Colby Blake to 2,190 days in prison, with credit for 31 days spent in jail after the accident and 579 days served on house arrest.
A judge has sentenced Colby Blake to 2,160 days in prison — a little under 6 years. He’s gotten credit for 31 days already served in jail and credit for 579 days for serving on house arrest. His driver’s license is also suspended for one year. pic.twitter.com/GYmY9aJAlH
— Taylor Johnson WTWO (@NewsladyTay) August 7, 2019
Blake was immediately taken into custody by the sheriff’s office.
Dwayne Murphy said he is pleased with the outcome.
“We’re happy for whatever would have happened. We just left that to the judge and that’s what it was,” he said.
Since Kendall Murphy’s passing, a scholarship has been established in his name through Barr-Reeve Community Schools. There is also a 5K race and golf scramble organized in his honor.
