SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A year after two West Sacramento teens were killed while riding their bicycles, the father of one of the victims says a judge’s decision to allow murder charges against the accused driver is a step toward justice. But the case is far from over.

Jerry Chatman said he was in court Monday when a Yolo County judge ruled that David Walker will face eight charges, including murder, in connection with the deaths of 17-year-olds Jaea Chatman and Layla Clemons.



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Chatman said he still visits the site where his daughter and her girlfriend were killed. He said the loss remains overwhelming because he used to speak with Jaea every day.

“There will be no forgiveness. This is not the movie where I say, ‘Alright, you know I found it.’ I’m not gonna find it, I’m not looking to forgive him. I’m not finding it in my heart. I’m not even looking for it,” Chatman said.

At the top of a mantel in Chatman’s home sit the ashes of his daughter, who he said will forever be 17 years old.

The family also attended a preliminary hearing in May that lasted about two weeks. During those proceedings, Chatman said they learned details about the crash, including that the teens’ bicycles were crushed, and the girls were found on opposite sides of the road.

Last August, the Yolo County District Attorney said Walker admitted drinking 6 to 8 ounces of vodka before getting into a vehicle. ABC10 also reported from the courtroom that prosecutors said Walker returned to the scene before leaving.

“I slept a lot better, you know, but like I said, it’s just the beginning,” Chatman said. “And that’s how this case has been. We have highs, we have lows, you know. We get information we can use, and then we get information that’s not soothing at all.”

Chatman also said Walker’s actions after the crash have weighed heavily on the family.

“All of his actions were somewhat very convenient at the time. He can’t get a blood alcohol because he left the scene,” Chatman said.

Despite the pain, Chatman said he finds some comfort in knowing the two girls were together when they died. Looking ahead, he said he hopes the family continues to see progress as the case moves through the courts.

“Going forward, I just hope that we continue to see justice. I hope we continue to get these wins. We get what we can get, and we’re not gonna throw a fit. Just as long as he has to stand and answer for his crimes,” Chatman said.

Chatman said prosecutors have prepared the families for a range of possible outcomes as the case proceeds, but they remain committed to pursuing justice for both girls.

Walker’s next court hearing is scheduled for Friday the 24th.

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