FRANKLIN COUNTY, Mo. – Emily Hernandez, 25, who gained national attention for her involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for a fatal wrong-way crash on January 5, 2022. Hernandez admitted to driving under the influence when her car collided with a vehicle, killing Vickie Wilson and seriously injuring her husband, Ryan, on Interstate 44.
Hernandez pleaded guilty in November to felony DWI resulting in death and felony DWI resulting in serious injury. During her sentencing on Wednesday, family members of the victim gave emotional statements about the lasting impact of Wilson’s death. “She was my baby girl,” said Wilson’s mother, Tonie Donaldson, through tears.
The crash, captured by a truck driver’s video, occurred near St. Clair, Missouri. Hernandez was driving the wrong way on the highway, and the impact instantly killed Wilson and seriously injured Ryan Wilson. Hernandez’s history also includes her involvement in the Capitol riot, where she was seen holding up a broken sign. She served 30 days in jail for her role in the January 6 events and was later pardoned by President Trump.
Wilson’s family expressed their grief and frustration, emphasizing that Hernandez’s past should not affect their pursuit of justice. “Her actions at the Capitol wouldn’t have changed things, but ultimately, it speaks volumes about her regard for the justice system,” said Desirae Raymo, Wilson’s niece.
Hernandez’s defense attorney, Ethan Corlija, highlighted that she had taken steps to turn her life around and had not violated her bond conditions. He argued that she would carry the burden of guilt for the rest of her life. However, Judge Ryan Helfrich rejected probation, handing down a sentence of 10 years for causing Wilson’s death and 7 years for injuring Ryan, with both sentences running concurrently.
Wilson’s family expressed relief that Hernandez received a significant sentence, although they felt it couldn’t undo the pain of their loss. “Nothing will ever bring her back,” said Wilson’s mother. Despite Hernandez’s tearful apology in court, her actions were met with skepticism from the victim’s family.
Though Hernandez was sentenced to 17 years in total, she could be eligible for parole in a few years. Wilson’s family has vowed to fight any potential early release.