Fall from Grace: WWE Legend Tammy Sytch Sentenced in Fatal DUI Crash
Tammy “Sunny” Sytch, a former WWE Hall of Famer, was sentenced to a significant prison term following a fatal drunk-driving incident. This sentencing marks a dramatic turn in the life of the once-celebrated wrestling personality.
Background and Charges
Sytch, known for her time in the WWE as “Sunny,” faced serious charges due to her involvement in a deadly car crash in Ormond Beach, Florida. She was accused of driving under the influence, which resulted in a fatal accident. Initially, she had pleaded not guilty to the charges but later entered into a plea deal, pleading no contest.
The Sentencing
On a Monday in late 2023, Sytch was sentenced to 17 years in prison, followed by eight years of probation, in a court in Volusia County, Florida. This sentencing reflects the gravity of her actions and the tragic outcome of the crash.
Details of the Incident
The crash occurred on March 25, 2022, when Sytch was driving a sedan in Ormond Beach. She collided with a stopped vehicle driven by Julian Lasseter, a 75-year-old man, who succumbed to his injuries. The impact of the crash also caused Lasseter’s car to hit another vehicle, injuring three additional people.
Extent of Impairment
Court documents revealed that Sytch’s blood-alcohol content during the incident ranged between 0.32 and 0.36, significantly above the legal limit. Additionally, marijuana was found in her system, and an open bottle of vodka was discovered in her car. Sytch was reportedly speeding at the time of the crash.
Legal History
Sytch’s legal troubles were not new. She had faced arrest for drunk driving on six previous occasions. In this case, she pleaded no contest to multiple charges, including DUI manslaughter, driving while her license was suspended, and several counts of DUI causing damage to persons and property.
Sytch’s Statement and Prosecution’s Stance
During the court proceedings, prosecutors labeled Sytch a “danger to society” and pushed for a maximum 25-year prison sentence due to her repeated offenses. On her part, Sytch expressed deep regret for her actions, citing the death of her fiancé in 2005 as a contributing factor to her struggles. She acknowledged a series of mistakes following her personal tragedy, indicating a pattern of behavior she failed to correct.
Tammy Sytch’s sentencing represents a somber conclusion to a series of events that began with a tragic accident and ended with a significant prison term. Her case underscores the serious consequences of driving under the influence and the personal and legal repercussions that follow such actions.