Michigan Groom Will Spend Decades in Prison for Killing His Best Friend on His Wedding Night
Shirah will serve 30 to 45 years after prosecutors said he intentionally ran over his best man following an argument at the wedding celebration.
- Genesee County Circuit Court Judge Khary Hanible sentenced James Shirah on Monday to 30 to 45 years in prison for killing groomsman Terry Lewis Taylor Jr. on his wedding day in 2024. Shirah received credit for 618 days already served.
- On August 30, 2024, Shirah struck Taylor with an SUV following an alcohol-fueled argument during a wedding celebration in the 1400 block of East Hamilton Avenue on Flint's north side. Taylor had served as Shirah's best man hours earlier.
- Surveillance video captured the vehicle accelerating toward Taylor before impact. Judge Hanible rejected defense attorney Harrell Milhouse's argument that the crash was accidental, stating, "There was nothing accidental about what took place."
- Victim's cousin Eren Taylor delivered impact testimony, describing blood covering the victim's chest. Hanible corrected Shirah's assertion of innocence, telling him, "You are, however, a killer."
- Shirah's bride, Savanah Collier, pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact and faces sentencing on May 26. She may seek relief under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act, which could result in charge dismissal if probation is completed successfully.
47 Articles
47 Articles
Michigan groom is sentenced to decades in prison for killing groomsman on wedding night
FLINT, Mich. — A man in Michigan who got married and then ran over his best friend that same day, killing him, after an alcohol-fueled argument was sentenced Monday to at least 30 years in prison.“The only thing I can do for the rest of my life is express my apology and remorse.
Michigan groom killed his best friend on his wedding day. Now he’s locked up for decades
A man in Michigan who got married and then ran over his best friend that same day, killing him, after an alcohol-fueled argument was sentenced Monday to at least 30 years in prison. “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 said in Genesee County court. Shirah, 24, was driving when his vehicle struck Terry Taylor Jr. in Flint, about an hour’s drive northwest of De…
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