'I will forever be sorry': Groom sentenced to 30 years in prison for killing best man on wedding day

A groom in Michigan will spend decades in jail for killing his best man on the same day of his wedding. 

According to a report by NBC News, James Shirah, 24, has been sentenced to at least 30 years in prison by Genesee County Circuit Court Judge Khary L. Hanible in a hearing on Monday, May 11, for the murder of 29-year-old Terry Taylor Jr. 

"The only thing I can do for the rest of my life is express my apology and remorse. I will forever be sorry," Shirah told the court. "That was my best friend. I accept full responsibility for my actions that night."

In response, Judge Khary Hanible said, "Mr. Shirah, I believe that you are not a criminal. You are, however, a killer."

Reports say that alcohol fueled an argument between the two during the wedding reception. According to a testimony, Shirah left after the fight or about a minute before returning and hitting Taylor with his SUV on East Hamilton Street in Flint. The crash sent Taylor flying through the air. 

Per the media outlet, Shirah's defense claimed that the crash was unintentional, but the prosecution noted he "had time to reflect" before returning and committing the crime. 

The court ruled a 30- to 45-year sentence for Shirah for second-degree murder, as well as 10 to 15 years each for operating without a license and fleeing the scene of an accident that led to death.

NBC News reported that Shirah's wife Savanah Collier will also be charged for being an accessory to the crime. She will be sentenced later this month.