A Michigan groom will spend at least three decades behind bars after fatally striking his best friend with his SUV following an alcohol-fueled argument at his wedding. James Shirah, 24, of Flint, was sentenced on Monday for the death of Terry Lewis Taylor Jr., 29, who served as his best man.
Sentencing Details
Genesee County Circuit Court Judge Khary L. Hanible handed down a sentence of 30 to 45 years for second-degree murder, a charge reduced from open murder. Shirah also received 10 to 15 years each for leaving the scene of a fatal accident and driving on a suspended license. All sentences will run concurrently, and he received credit for 618 days already served. Additionally, he was ordered to pay $334 in fines and court costs.
During the hearing, Judge Hanible stated, 'Mr. Shirah, I believe that you are not a criminal. You are, however, a killer.' The judge emphasized that Shirah took a life, making him a killer by definition.
The Incident
The fatal incident occurred on August 30, 2024, after Shirah married his bride, Savanah Collier, 23. The couple celebrated with an afterparty at a pizzeria in Flint before moving to a home on East Hamilton Avenue. There, Taylor argued with Shirah following an altercation with his girlfriend. Court documents indicate Shirah had been drinking throughout the day.
Shirah initially walked away from the dispute and left the area, but returned a minute later behind the wheel of his SUV. Surveillance footage captured him allegedly angling the vehicle toward Taylor and accelerating as Taylor attempted to flee. The impact catapulted Taylor into the air, and he later died at the hospital.
Prosecutors argued that Shirah had time to reflect before striking Taylor, as he briefly removed himself from the argument. The defense maintained it was an alcohol-fueled accident.
Victim Impact
Taylor's cousin, Eren Taylor, delivered a victim impact statement, saying, 'When I got to him all I could see was blood. I hope they throw the book at you.' She also noted that Taylor's chest bore the names of her and her two sons.
Taylor's pregnant fiancée, Nikki Robinson, mother of his three children, launched a GoFundMe page for funeral expenses, which raised $3,150 toward its $5,000 goal. Following the sentencing, Robinson wrote on Facebook, 'I'm glad James is going to rot for the next however many years.'
Defense and Remorse
Shirah's attorney, Harrell Milhouse, requested a downward departure, calling the incident an accident fueled by alcohol and a heated argument between lifelong friends. However, Judge Hanible rejected this, stating, 'There was nothing accidental about what took place.'
In a tearful statement, Shirah expressed remorse, saying, 'The only thing I can do for the rest of my life is express my apology and remorse. I will forever be sorry. It was not intentional. That was my best friend. I accept full responsibility for my actions that night.'
Bride's Involvement
Shirah's bride, Savanah Collier, pleaded guilty to one count of accessory after the fact. She may seek sentencing under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act on May 26. If approved and she completes probation, the charge will be dismissed.
