RANDOLPH, Ga. (WALB) — The father of the Spann family says he’s encouraged but still cautious after learning that a grand jury has formally indicted charges in the case.

Three members of the family—Bernedine, 32, Ja’Leah, 13, and Jaxton, 7—died in a crash on Highway 82 in January.

The other driver, Sherita Goddard, is suspected of driving under the influence, according to the Georgia State Patrol (GSP).

“The grand jury was held on Monday, and the charges have been formally indicted,” James Spann said in a statement. “I’m still trying to process because I don’t want to get my hopes up like with the bond hearing. I can’t afford to.”

He said the loss of Bernedine, Ja’Leah and Jaxton still feels fresh.

“It still feels like it was yesterday when I received the worst phone call of my life,” Spann said. “My heart stopped in a way I didn’t know was possible. I’ve been numb ever since, and it feels like I’m moving and thinking in slow motion while everyone around me is moving at full speed.”

Spann said the bond hearing “wasn’t what we all expected,” and described nights of stress and uncertainty about whether the person responsible will ultimately be held accountable.

“There have been many long, emotional and stressful nights worrying about if a person will be held accountable for the loss of our loved ones,” he said. “We know life will never be the same without them.”

He added that family and friends have leaned on faith while trying to cope.

“Sometimes God will give you answers you don’t want though just to remind you that the only option you have is to lean on Him,” he said.

The father said the family remains determined to push for what they consider justice in the case.

“Bernedine, Ja’Leah, and Jaxton, we miss y’all, and we are not going to stop until your killer is held accountable,” he said.

He’s also urging the community to continue supporting the family by signing and sharing a petition calling for accountability and a tough sentence.

“We need as many signatures as possible because we don’t want a light sentence or lenient plea deal,” he said. “We want justice and accountability for each life that was lost.”

The petition alleges that the other driver, Sherita Goddard, was driving the wrong-way and suspected of DUI. It notes that Bernedine and Ja’Leah died at the scene and Jaxton died days later in the hospital. The petition asks the justice system to:

• treat the case as three separate lives lost
• avoid any lenient plea deal
• pursue sentencing that reflects the magnitude of the loss (including consecutive penalties where appropriate)
• ensure a transparent legal process and the family’s rights under Georgia’s Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights
• Ensure the family’s voices are heard throughout

The petition also highlights the surviving father and son, describes community grief and encourages people to sign and share the petition and support the family via GoFundMe.

James Spann is also thanking supporters for “all the love and support” and asked for continued prayers for the Lewis, Davis and Spann families.

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