Charlie Sybrant's friends and family filled an entire row in the Hickory District Courthouse on Thursday as the man accused of killing the graduate student made a brief appearance in court.
Daniel Thomas Whisnant, 18, of Lenoir, is charged with felony death by motor vehicle, felony serious injury by motor vehicle, two counts of felony hit and run with injury, DWI and driving while license revoked.
Sybrant, 22, was fatally injured Oct. 18, when she was struck by a vehicle while walking along the Interstate 40 on-ramp on U.S. 321.
Sybrant's friend, Joshua Gajus, 24, also hit by the car that claimed Sybrant's life, attended Thursday's hearing in a wheelchair that supported his bandaged left leg.
Before Whisnant's hearing, a parade of DUI suspects went before the judge and pleaded guilty to a variety of charges, while the judge handed out suspended sentences, fines and probation.
Gajus and Sybrant's parents said they were present in court to make sure justice was done.
"I've lost my best friend and my daughter. I want to be sure justice is done for my daughter," Dee Sybrant said. "That was the most devastating day of my life — that was my baby."
Whisnant, 18, arrived in the courtroom about noon, wearing a light green jumpsuit and shackles.
After conferring with his lawyer, David Moose, Whisnant decided to waive his probable cause hearing and have his case transferred to Superior Court.
Sybrant's father, Michael Sybrant, said he plans to attend every one of Whisnant's court appearances as the case winds its way through the legal system.
"I'll be at every one of them for sure," he said.
Whisnant's bond is set at $104,000 secured.
District Court Judge Amy R. Sigmon amended his bond conditions so he will not be allowed to operate a motor vehicle or consume alcohol or impairing substances while his case is pending if he is able to post bond.
Dee Sybrant said she has not forgiven the man accused of killing her daughter.
"Forgiveness is something he'll have to ask for and earn," she said.
Sybrant said her message to others is to stay put if they've been drinking and to call for a ride rather than getting behind the wheel and taking the chance of killing themselves or someone else.
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