TACOMA, Wash. -- A tearful family who lost their son in a DUI crash came to court and had the guilty driver crying with them.

Bryson Stubbles, 19, learned his fate in a crash that involved friends.

They were all coming home from a bonfire in East Pierce county last fall. The driver admits alcohol and marijuana were involved. Stubbles said he expected anger in court, but got just the opposite.

Malek Frees, 18, was killed sitting in the front passenger seat when Stubbles lost control on state Route 410 near Greenwater in October crashing into a tree.

Malek's parents say they forgive him. His mother, Sia Hills, said in court, "My only desire in being here is to let people know how loved Malek was and to also let you know that we desire that same grace and mercy for your life."

"My heart goes out to you, dude, it really really does," said Ryan Hills, Malek's father. "I've been in your shoes. If it were up to me, I'd let you walk right now."





There were three other passengers in the car that day including Tristan Hedrick who was severely injured, but not mad. She told Stubbles in court, "Bryson, do you remember when I forgave you in the hospital. I still do."

The compassion shown was a shock for Stubbles. "The fact that they're gracious enough to forgive me after only a short amount of time, I'm overwhelmed because I came in here not expecting forgiveness at all."





And a rare scene happened in the courtroom. The father of the victim shook the hand of the man responsible for his son's death. "I'm not even mad at you,and my son is dead."

Malek's family said it's their strong faith that keeps them going, and they hope Stubbles finds that faith in prison.

The judge sentenced Stubbles to six years in prison.