FLINT, Mich. — A Michigan man received a minimum 30-year prison sentence Monday for fatally striking his best friend with his car just hours after getting married following a dispute involving alcohol.
“The only thing I can do for the rest of my life is express my apology and remorse. … I will forever be sorry,” James Shirah told the Genesee County court.
The 24-year-old was behind the wheel when his car hit Terry Taylor Jr. in Flint, located roughly one hour northwest of Detroit, on August 30, 2024. Shirah had wed Savanah Collier earlier that same day, and the wedding party had gathered at a residence for the celebration.
Defense lawyers claimed the fatal collision was accidental. However, prosecutors maintained that Shirah had departed the scene initially and had opportunity to consider his actions before coming back and hitting Taylor, according to MLive.com.
“Mr. Shirah, I believe that you are not a criminal. You are, however, a killer,” stated Judge Khary Hanible during sentencing.
Back in April, Shirah entered a no contest plea to second-degree murder charges along with additional offenses. He becomes eligible for parole consideration after serving three decades.
“I hope that they throw the book at you,” Eren Taylor, the victim’s cousin, told Shirah prior to the judge announcing the sentence.
Shirah’s bride faces her own sentencing hearing scheduled for later in May on charges of serving as an accessory.
