Macon man sentenced to 25 years for 2022 shooting death of girlfriend’s father
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- A local man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges stemming from a deadly domestic dispute that left his girlfriend’s father dead.
Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney Anita Howard announced Tuesday that
Terrance Williams
, 28, entered a guilty plea to voluntary manslaughter and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony in connection with the shooting death of Eddie Thomas, 42. The incident took place in February 2022, and Thomas died more than a month later from complications related to his gunshot wounds.
“Mr. Williams’ decision to accept responsibility for his actions and enter this guilty plea is an important step toward justice for the Thomas family and our community,” DA Howard said in a statement. “While nothing can bring back Eddie Thomas or undo the pain his family has endured, Williams’ acknowledgment of his guilt spares the family the trauma of a lengthy trial and demonstrates that he understands the gravity of what he did.”
Confrontation turns deadly
According to investigators, on Feb. 5, 2022, Thomas arrived at Williams’ residence to pick up his daughter, who had been involved in an altercation there. An argument broke out between Thomas and Williams inside the home. When Thomas left the residence, Williams followed him outside and shot him multiple times, striking him in the legs and abdomen.
Thomas initially survived his injuries but died approximately 36 days later due to medical complications.
Original charges reduced in plea
Williams was originally indicted on charges including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and firearm possession during a felony. As part of the plea deal, the malice murder charge was reduced to voluntary manslaughter, in exchange for Williams accepting responsibility for the crime.
Under the terms of the sentence, Williams will serve 20 years for voluntary manslaughter and five consecutive years for the firearm charge.
“This 25-year sentence reflects both the seriousness of taking a life and the mitigating circumstances that led to this tragic confrontation,” Howard said.
Senior Assistant District Attorney Tony May prosecuted the case. The victim’s family was present at the sentencing hearing and expressed gratitude for the resolution.
