Moments after her family offered up gut-wrenching impact statements in court, Amanda Williams's killer, Tirrell Edwards, was sentenced to life in prison for the shooting death of his fiancee.
Edwards will be eligible for parole after serving 24 years.
“We got what we can get. We’re satisfied and we can begin to heal,” Williams' brother, Joey Lewis, told News 5 following Monday's court appearance.
During the sentencing, Lewis spoke to the court about what his sister's death means for the children in the family as they grow up.
“Man, she was special. My sister did everything right in life,” he said.
Williams's daughter, Tyler Williams, also spoke, telling the court that her own daughter would grow up without knowing her grandmother.
“We can’t get my mom back ever. My daughter has to grow up without a grandma,” she said.
The family's attorney also read a statement from Williams' adult son, Tristan Bentley.
"With her being such a family-oriented person, holidays were very important. Now holidays just have an empty void without her being a light in the room," Attorney Ian Friedman said on behalf of Bentley.
You can watch the entire sentencing in the player below:
According to court records, Edwards shot and killed Williams on Oct. 9, 2023. Police responded to the home and found the 46-year-old woman unresponsive. She had been shot multiple times. Edwards told investigations he shot her in self-defense, claiming she was wielding a knife.
Edwards was detained after the shooting and questioned but released without charge when the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor's Office found insufficient evidence to charge him.
After several weeks of outcry from family, friends and community members, a grand jury indicted Edwards on charges in early November. He turned himself in to authorities the following day.
On March 4, Edwards was found guilty of two counts of murder, two counts of felonious assault and one count of domestic violence. He was found not guilty of aggravated murder.
Watch the judge read the verdict:
Williams was a beloved hair stylist, sorority sister and church member. Her death sparked calls for justice and awareness of domestic violence.
Several dozen supporters packed the courtroom during the trial and many wrote letters to the judge ahead of sentencing.
"I could really feel the love for her behind me every single day. So for that, I am grateful," said prosecutor Kevin Filiatraut. "I would encourage anyone who's in a relationship with issues to please reach out to people who are here to help you."
During sentencing, the attorneys agreed to merge the 5 counts on which Edwards was convicted. Firearms specifications added 9 years to Edwards' required time served. He received a life sentence with eligibility for parole after 24 years.
"While the verdict, we're satisfied [with it]. He got a sentence of 24-to-life. We'd much rather have Amanda back then even be standing here," said Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael O'Malley.
Edwards' legal team has 30 days to file an appeal in the case.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
- Tirrell Edwards found guilty of murder in Amanda Williams trial
- Warrensville Heights man on trial for death of fiancée Amanda Williams claiming self-defense
- Man accused of murdering fiancée takes the stand
- Warrensville Hts. man pleads not guilty in shooting death of Amanda Williams
- Warrensville Hts. man charged with murder for fiancée's fatal shooting turns himself in
- Community in mourning after woman allegedly shot in domestic disturbance
