Verdict in Trial for Person Who Killed Shannon's Parents

On Monday and Tuesday of two weeks ago, the week after Thanksgiving, Shannon and I were in New Hampshire for the start of the trial of Grafton County vs. Joshua Shepherd regarding the death of Shannon’s parents and one other lady. Joshua Shepherd crossed the yellow line and killed Gary and Joyce Varden on their motorcycle as well as Claudia Huffman who was riding on bike with her husband, Rick. Rick lived but was badly injured. Shannon was able to visit the scene of the accident, place roses on the crosses marking the scene of their death and got to spend some time there at the scene.

We had the opportunity to see the scene, listen to some witnesses and get a much better understanding the accident. We talked with Officer Seth Cooper of the New Hampshire state police as he was one of the first on the scene. He met us at the scene of the accident, walked us through it and explained many details of the accident.

We also got a chance to see Joshua Shepherd. Through the trial, during breaks when we were in his vicinity and during his testimony, he never showed any remorse or offered any type of apology or condolences. While 25 at the time of the accident, he had already been responsible for several car accidents involving some type of causality.

After deliberating a day, the jury returned a verdict of guilty on 3 counts of negligent homicide and 1 count of vehicular assault. He will face sentencing next month, likely at least 3 years in jail before possible parole. I would categorize both Shannon’s and my mood as numb, a little surprised but also relief. 12 unbiased members of the jury heard the evidence and were in agreement of his guilt and responsibility for killing her parents and another.

As Christians, we pray for Joshua Shepherd that through this experience and upcoming jail time, he would change the direction of his life and find Someone who can offer both forgiveness and purpose to an individual who desperately needs it.