A Michigan man, James Shirah, who fatally struck his best friend with a vehicle just hours after his wedding has been sentenced to at least 30 years in prison.
James Shirah, 24, received the sentence on Monday in a Genesee County court for the death of his longtime friend, Terry Taylor Jr.
The incident occurred on August 30, 2024, in Flint, Michigan, shortly after Shirah married Savanah Collier earlier that same day.
According to reports, wedding celebrations later continued at a house where an argument broke out after heavy drinking.
Prosecutors said Shirah drove his vehicle into Taylor following the altercation. They argued that the act was intentional, noting that he had initially left the scene before returning and hitting the victim.
Shirah’s lawyer, however, maintained that the fatal crash was not deliberate.
During Monday’s sentencing, Shirah expressed remorse over the killing.
“The only thing I can do for the rest of my life is express my apology and remorse. I will forever be sorry,” he told the court.
Presiding judge Khary Hanible described the case as tragic, telling Shirah that while he did not see him as a career criminal, he was nevertheless responsible for taking a life.
“Mr Shirah, I believe that you are not a criminal. You are, however, a killer,” the judge said.
In April 2026, Shirah pleaded no contest to second-degree murder and other related charges.
He will become eligible for parole after serving 30 years.
Before sentencing was handed down, the victim’s cousin, Eren Taylor, urged the court to impose the harshest punishment possible.
“I hope that they throw the book at you,” she said.
Meanwhile, Shirah’s wife, Collier, is expected to be sentenced later this month after being charged as an accessory in connection with the case.
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