James Shirah, 24, from Flint, Michigan, was sentenced on May 11, 2026, to 30 to 45 years in prison after pleading no contest to second-degree murder for killing his groomsman, Terry Taylor Jr, on August 30, 2024 [1, 2].
Terry Taylor Jr, 29, was struck by Shirah’s sport-utility vehicle during an argument hours after Shirah’s wedding to Savanah Collier. Taylor later died at a local hospital, leaving behind four children and his fiancée [1, 2]. Taylor's cousin recalled the scene, saying, "When I got to him all I could see was blood," as first responders performed CPR [2].
The conflict began after celebrations at Flint Pizzeria and continued to a house on East Hamilton Street. Shirah had been drinking daylong and briefly left the scene before returning and deliberately running over Taylor with his SUV [1, 2].
In April 2026, Shirah pleaded no contest to second-degree murder, operating with a suspended license causing death, and failing to stop at the scene of an accident when at fault [1, 2]. At sentencing, Shirah expressed remorse, stating, "The only thing I can do for the rest of my life is express my apology and remorse … I will forever be sorry" [1].
Judge Khary Hanible said, "Mr. Shirah, I believe that you are not a criminal. You are, however, a killer," before handing down the sentence. Shirah will be eligible for parole after serving at least 30 years [1, 2].
Shirah’s wife, Savanah Collier, pleaded no contest to accessory after the fact and is scheduled to be sentenced later this month in May 2026 [2].
