McClain County, Oklahoma — The trial of Bradley Hodson, an Oklahoma man accused of hitting and killing a father while he was out on a run with his son, began its third day Thursday. The incident, which occurred on Veterans Day 2020, has left the family and friends of the victim, William Dupler, seeking justice.
Hodson is facing a first-degree manslaughter charge after prosecutors allege he was speeding and driving under the influence when he struck Dupler in a Newcastle neighborhood. Dupler, who was running with his son that evening, was killed on impact. The case has been a long time coming for those who knew Dupler, with many close friends expressing frustration over the prolonged legal process.
Logan Matlock, a family friend of Dupler, shared the emotional toll the trial has taken on those who loved him. “It is just really hard on everybody because we’ve been waiting so long for this to happen,” Matlock said. “He was a great guy. Real nice, real funny and I know he was a great dad. He would do anything for his family.”
One of the most emotional moments in court came when Dupler’s now-15-year-old son took the stand. The teenager, who was the only witness to the tragic event, testified that he and his father had seen Hodson’s jeep speeding toward them. Dupler attempted to wave down the vehicle, but tragically, he was struck and killed.
Dupler’s son also shared that he was never questioned by Newcastle police officers after the incident, adding another layer of distress to the already difficult case.
The defense, however, has contested the allegations, arguing that there is not enough evidence to prove the charges. Hodson’s attorney claimed Dupler’s clothing and his position in the street may have contributed to the accident, attempting to portray the incident as a tragic mishap rather than a criminal act.
Court documents reveal that Hodson admitted to speeding in the neighborhood and acknowledged drinking an alcoholic beverage roughly an hour before the crash. Despite these admissions, the defense argued that the death was simply an accident, not a result of recklessness or impaired driving.
As the trial continues, Dupler’s family and friends are holding onto the hope that justice will be served, as they continue to cope with the loss of a beloved father and friend.
This case has brought to light not only the tragic consequences of impaired driving but also the emotional aftermath for those left behind. With the trial in its early stages, the community eagerly awaits the verdict.
