Michigan – In a devastating case of domestic violence in Michigan, a 44-year-old man, identified as Marcus L., who gunned down his 38-year-old wife, identified as Alicia L., was sentenced to decades in prison for a killing that prosecutors say was fueled by rage and control. Marcus received a 25–50 year prison sentence after pleading guilty to second-degree murder in the August 17, 2023, death of his wife, Alicia. He also faced firearm charges. The sentencing came after a mistrial earlier this year, when jurors could not agree on a verdict. According to reports, the fatal incident took place when Marcus, who the victim’s family described as a “piece of garbage,” arrived at their home to pick up his stuff a day after she announced to him that she wanted to put an end to their marriage, which only lasted for half a year.
Court records show the couple married in February 2023, but the relationship quickly turned violent. In May, Marcus was arrested for domestic violence against Alicia and ordered to have no contact with her. Despite this, he continued to cause problems as Alicia prepared to file for divorce and sell their home. On August 16, Alicia served him with divorce papers. The next day, Marcus went to their home, reportedly to collect belongings. Instead, an argument broke out. According to police, Marcus grabbed Alicia’s pistol from a drawer. He told investigators the gun “went off” as he tried to hit her with it.
Alicia fled to a bathroom and locked the door, but Marcus forced his way in. She then tried to escape through a window, but Marcus opened fire, hitting her 15 times. Neighbors later told police they heard shouting followed by gunfire, and one saw a man leaving in a vehicle. Responding officers found Alicia outside, just north of the house, with numerous gunshot wounds to the head and body. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Alicia was the mother of three adult children — a daughter in college, a son preparing to start college, and a younger daughter in high school.
At sentencing, Alicia’s father delivered a searing statement toward Marcus. Holding back emotion, he said, “I just want the world to know that this guy is a piece of garbage. I wish I could handle this and serve justice on his a— right now.” Marcus chose not to address the court. Alicia’s brother spoke to reporters afterward about the impact on her children. He described how each milestone they face — from a college graduation to a first year of college to a high school prom — will now be marked by their mother’s absence. “It’s going to suck,” he said bluntly. The victim’s brother also urged women experiencing abuse to speak out, acknowledging how hard that can be.
The judge imposed the maximum sentence under the plea deal, noting the gravity of Marcus’ actions. Although Marcus will be eligible for parole after 25 years, the pain Alicia’s family endures will never heal. Her father said he hopes her story raises awareness about domestic violence and the danger of ignoring protective order requests. The tragedy has also sparked community conversations about how to better protect victims from partners with histories of abuse. For Alicia’s loved ones, the sentencing ends the court process but not their grief. “We can never get her back. All we can do now is remember her and fight for others who might be in the same situation,” the family stated.
