Written by JR Robinson

 Shelby County, TN — The long-awaited trial for Maurice Yarbrough, accused of killing Memphis firefighter David Pleasant while allegedly driving under the influence, has been scheduled for November 3, 2025. Yarbrough faces several serious charges, including vehicular homicide and DUI, following the tragic incident that took place in 2022. The deadly crash occurred while Firefighter Pleasant was responding to an emergency call, tragically ending his life and injuring three other firefighters in the process.

The tragic loss of Firefighter Pleasant has reverberated through the Memphis Fire Department and the wider community. “Today, we took the next step in this case by asking the court to set a trial date,” said Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy. “We will seek justice for Firefighter Pleasant, his colleagues, and their families, with whom I recently met. We owe it to the victims to hold the responsible party accountable, and we remain committed to supporting the families and the Memphis Firefighters Association throughout this process.”

The incident has sparked both heartbreak and outrage, as Yarbrough's alleged actions behind the wheel resulted in the death of a beloved public servant. As Firefighter Pleasant selflessly responded to an emergency, Yarbrough, reportedly driving under the influence, struck the firefighter with his vehicle. In addition to Pleasant's tragic death, three other brave firefighters sustained injuries, adding further devastation to the already heartbreaking situation.

Tennessee law classifies vehicular homicide resulting from intoxication as a Class B felony. For defendants without prior felony convictions, such a conviction carries a potential sentence of 8 to 12 years in prison. Yarbrough now faces these grave charges as he prepares to stand trial in 2025, with the community closely watching the case unfold.

District Attorney Mulroy expressed his gratitude to the Memphis Firefighters Association for their advocacy in clarifying aspects of the case, including the potential penalties and the defendant’s record. He assured the families affected by this tragedy that justice remains the focus of the prosecution. "We will continue to keep the victims, their families, and the Association informed every step of the way," Mulroy emphasized.

The trial of Maurice Yarbrough will undoubtedly be a significant moment for Memphis and for the families who have been touched by the loss of Firefighter Pleasant. As the legal process moves forward, the hope for justice grows stronger, with the community united in honoring the memory of a fallen hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others.