Groomsman Killed by SUV-Driving Groom After Wedding Day Argument With Newlyweds: Police
Michigan: A wedding celebration in Michigan took a deadly turn when an argument between the groom and a groomsman led to a fatal accident. James Douglas Shirah, 22, the groom, now faces charges of second-degree murder, while his bride, Savanah Nicole Collier, 21, has been charged as an accessory after the fact to a felony.
Wedding Day Dispute Ends in Fatality
What was supposed to be the happiest day of their lives quickly turned into a criminal investigation, and the newlyweds may now face years behind bars instead of a honeymoon. The incident occurred on the evening of August 30, 2024, in Flint, Michigan. At approximately 8 p.m., police were called to East Hamilton Avenue, where they found Terry Lewis Taylor Jr., 29, critically injured. Taylor, who had served as a groomsman at the wedding earlier that day, was rushed to Hurley Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries. Authorities believe that the argument between Taylor and Shirah escalated, resulting in Taylor being struck by a speeding SUV allegedly driven by the groom.
Remembering the Victim
Terry Taylor Jr. leaves behind a grieving family, including his fiancée, three children, and another child on the way. His obituary remembers him as a man who loved fishing, riding bikes, and spending time with his children, family, and friends. Taylor’s fiancée has started a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for his funeral. In her plea for help, she describes the devastating loss: “My fiancé was murdered on August 30th, 2024. He was only 29 years old. He leaves behind 3 children, and I am currently pregnant. This was completely unexpected, and a lot of lives are affected by this loss.” The family and community are reeling from the sudden and tragic death of a man who was deeply loved.
Investigation and Arrests
Details about the events leading up to the fatal accident remain unclear. However, police have quickly linked Taylor’s death to Shirah and Collier. Authorities state that after the wedding, an argument between Taylor and Shirah took place, culminating in the groom allegedly driving a large SUV into Taylor at high speed. Law enforcement officials have not provided further details on what role the bride, Collier, played in the incident, but she has been charged as an accessory. Shirah and Collier were both arrested and arraigned earlier this week. Shirah is held without bond and is scheduled to appear in court for a probable cause hearing on September 12, 2024. Collier, meanwhile, was released on a $1,000 bond and will also appear in court on the same date.
Legal Proceedings and Unanswered Questions
The tragic incident has raised many questions about the circumstances that led to Taylor’s death. While police continue to investigate, the newlyweds are facing serious charges. Shirah could face a life sentence if convicted of second-degree murder, while Collier’s involvement as an accessory could also lead to significant prison time. The couple, who should have been celebrating their marriage, now face the grim reality of the legal consequences ahead.
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