MARION COUNTY — Judge Mark Stedelin found a 22-year-old Iuka man guilty Wednesday of first-degree murder in case involving the May 4, 2023, fiery crash that claimed the life of 66-year-old Nita Mobley.

Justin M. Bullard was additionally found guilty in the 2-day trial of aggravated driving under the influence and aggravated street racing.

“This is the outcome we hoped for from day 1,” said State’s Attorney Tim Hudspeth.

According to Hudspeth, Special Agent Christian Kohnen led the investigation and, together with numerous other Illinois State Police Troopers and Agents, provided him with all the evidence needed to convict the defendant of murder, not just reckless homicide.

“It didn’t take long in the investigation to learn the defendant’s actions were not reckless,” explained Hudspeth. “He was drunk, driving nearly 100 miles per hour, passing vehicles on the shoulder of Highway 50
between Sandoval and Salem, and remained 100% on the gas and off the brake until 1 second prior
to the crash. This was no accident. The defendant’s actions throughout the day on May 4 were
deliberate and intentional. I am very happy with this outcome and appreciate the tremendous level
of support shown for Mrs. Mobley by her numerous family and friends who attended the trial. I
hope this helps bring them some level of healing.”

Bullard is scheduled to be sentenced November 3, 2023