OK Trooper's Widow Speaks About Driver Who Hit, Killed Husband

Brandi Dees is now left to raise two little girls on her own, which she said physically she can do. Emotionally, it's tough because Nick Dees’ only dreams were to be a father and a state trooper.

Tuesday, July 21st 2015, 9:55 am

By: News 9

OK Trooper's Widow Speaks About Driver Who Hit, Killed Husband

Brandi Dees is now left to raise two little girls on her own, which she said physically she can do. Emotionally, it's tough because Nick Dees’ only dreams were to be a father and a state trooper.

It was one night on patrol in January when Trooper Dees' life suddenly ended. He and his partner Trooper Keith Burch were inspecting a jack-knifed semi on I-40 in Seminole County, when a distracted driver hit and killed Trooper Dees and severely injured Trooper Burch.

The alleged distracted driver was Steven Wayne Clark. Prosecutors said Clark was updating social media and texting when he hit the troopers.

Clark is now charged with first degree manslaughter. His preliminary hearing was back in May, and his next court date is set for August 6.

Brandi was at the preliminary hearing and she said when she looks at Clark, several thoughts flood her mind.

"I mean I'm angry at Steven Clark for what he did. My heart breaks for Nick because I don't know what happened to him. I don't know what he went through, Nick wouldn't want me to hate him. But I just have to learn I have to forgive him, I will forgive him," said Brandi. “He owes my children an apology, an explanation as to why he took their dad. Why it was so important."

If convicted Clark could face at least four years in prison.