**Iowa City Man Accepts Plea Deal in Drag Racing Death of Waterloo Woman**
In a significant development, 19-year-old Kesean Ford of Iowa City has accepted a plea deal in connection with a fatal drag racing incident that occurred on May 27, 2023, resulting in the death of 22-year-old Jennifer Russell from Waterloo. Ford pleaded guilty to homicide by vehicle-excessive speed over 25 mph, a Class C felony, just before his trial was set to commence. citeturn0search2
**Incident Overview**
On the night of the incident, Ford was driving a 2008 Saturn VUE alongside 17-year-old Elijah Seals, who was operating a 2012 GMC Acadia. Both vehicles were reportedly speeding and engaged in a drag race on E. Court Street in Iowa City. Ford’s vehicle collided with Jennifer Russell’s 2017 Chevrolet Malibu at the intersection of E. Court Street and S. Seventh Avenue. The impact propelled Russell’s car into Seals’ vehicle and subsequently into a utility pole, leading to her untimely death. citeturn0search2
**Legal Proceedings**
Ford’s plea to the Class C felony carries a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years. He is scheduled for sentencing on May 19, where he may be eligible for a deferred judgment and probation; however, prosecutors have indicated they will advocate for a prison term. citeturn0search2
Previously, in December 2024, co-defendant Elijah Seals entered an Alford plea to homicide by vehicle-reckless driving, a Class C felony. An Alford plea allows a defendant to maintain innocence while acknowledging that sufficient evidence exists for a likely conviction. Seals received a suspended 10-year prison sentence and was placed on three years of probation. He was also ordered to pay $150,000 in restitution to Jennifer Russell’s estate. citeturn0search7
**Family’s Response**
The Russell family has been vocal throughout the legal process, expressing profound grief and frustration. During Seals’ sentencing, Jennifer’s father, Matt Russell, conveyed his anguish, stating, “We have suffered so much pain and sorrow. We lost a big part of our life. I hate you and wish you were dead. She was the best daughter. Rot in hell.” Jennifer’s mother, Kelly Russell, recounted the harrowing experience of being on the phone with her daughter during the crash, describing the ordeal as “violent, senseless, horrific.” citeturn0search7
**Ongoing Legal Actions**
The Russell family had previously filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the defendants. However, the suit was dismissed without prejudice due to a procedural issue, as it was served to Seals directly, who was a minor at the time, instead of his parent or guardian. This dismissal allows the family the option to refile the lawsuit in the future. citeturn0search2
**Conclusion**
The acceptance of the plea deal by Ford marks a pivotal moment in the case, offering a measure of closure to a tragedy that has deeply affected both the Russell family and the broader community. As the legal proceedings continue, the case underscores the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the enduring impact on victims’ families.
