FLINT, Mich. (AP) — A Michigan man who hit and killed his best friend the same day they were married after a drunken 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 my remorse…I will always be sorry,” James Sheila said in Genesee County Court.
Shirah, 24, was driving on Aug. 30, 2024, when his car struck Terry Taylor Jr. in Flint, about an hour northwest of Detroit. He had married Savanah Collier earlier in the day, and the celebrations were moved to a house.
Sheila’s attorney argued that the accident was not intentional. However, prosecutors said Sheila left the scene and had time to reflect before returning and beating Taylor, MLive.com reported.
“Mr. Sheila, I believe you are not a criminal. However, you are a killer,” Judge Cary Hanibull said.
In April, Sheila pleaded no contest to second-degree murder and other crimes. He will be eligible for parole in 30 years.
“I hope they throw this book at you,” Taylor’s cousin Ellen Taylor said before Sheila was sentenced.
Sheila’s wife will be sentenced later in May for being an accessory to a crime.