Tragic Family Incident: 14-Year-Old Grandson Fatally Attacks Grandmother in Shocking Case

A teenager from West Virginia is facing a lengthy prison term after being convicted of the brutal stabbing murder of his grandmother.

Amauri Powe has received a life sentence for the killing of 46-year-old Parzella Harris, as announced by the Cabell County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Given that Powe was a minor when the crime occurred, he is eligible for parole consideration after serving 15 years, in accordance with West Virginia state law.

“The law extends mercy in his life sentence,” commented the prosecuting team, “a mercy he did not extend to his grandmother.”

In January, a jury found Powe guilty of first-degree murder. Due to the particularly violent nature of the crime, he was prosecuted as an adult, as noted by the prosecutors.

On February 4, 2024, when Powe was just 14, the tragic incident took place at a residence on the 1900 block of 18th Street. According to reports from local ABC and Fox affiliate WCHS, Powe and his grandmother shared the home. Powe allegedly confided in a friend about plans to obtain money from Harris.

The defendant stabbed and cut his grandmother 37 times, authorities said. Harris was found dead in the home, and the case was ruled a homicide.

Another minor was also arrested in connection with the woman’s death, but they made a deal with prosecutors, according to the local TV station.

Powe spoke at his sentencing hearing, while family members of Harris sat watching.

“I did a terrible, dumb thing,” Powe said, per local NBC affiliate WSAZ. He reportedly said he was on drugs at the time and hopes to get counseling and therapy as he moves closer to adulthood.

Still, Harris’ loved ones found it hard to forgive and forget.

“I don’t know why you did this,” her sister, Tonya Whitfield, said. “I’ll never forgive you, never. You shouldn’t have done it.”

The Cabell County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office stated that during the sentencing hearing, “numerous” members of Harris’ family “courageously addressed the Court, sharing heartfelt reflections on her life. She was remembered as a kind, loving, and giving grandmother whose presence brought strength and warmth to her family.”

“This is one of the most gruesome murders I have encountered in my professional career,” Cabell County Prosecuting Attorney Jason Spears said. “While no sentence can ever restore Ms. Harris to her family, today’s outcome ensures accountability for an act of unimaginable cruelty. Our hearts remain with the family of Parzella Harris as they continue to endure this profound and permanent loss.”