NOTE: The original version of this story incorrectly stated that Bright would be eligible for probation, which is not allowed under Illinois’ truth-in-sentencing laws for first-degree murder convictions.
A 21-year-old Danville man has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for killing a man almost three years ago during a gang shooting at an outdoor venue.
Dyontae Bright was sentenced Thursday afternoon by Judge Nancy Fahey for the June 16, 2018 killing of 23-year-old Albert Gardner Jr. at the Untouchables Motorcycle Club.
Police were called to the club around 2 a.m. that day and found Gardner and 18-year-old Tahji McGill dead, and another man with non-life-threatening injuries. Bright fled to Indiana after the shooting and was eventually captured seven months later on a warrant.
Fahey said during the sentencing hearing that Bright has a “total disregard for human life,” noting that he did not show any remorse throughout the trial. A jury convicted him of Gardner’s murder in March, but also acquitted him in McGill‘s death.
Mr. Gardner’s father, Albert Sr., told the court that he can no longer celebrate Father’s Day since his only son’s death, and that his grandchildren will never be able to see their father alive.
The Illinois Attorney General’s office asked for a 60-year sentence in the case, while Public Defender Mike Mara requested a 40-year sentence.
Bright was given credit for 852 days spent in jail.
