Yvonne Wu, a former New York City police officer, was sentenced to 27 years in prison on Wednesday for the fatal shooting of her ex-girlfriend’s new partner and the attempted murder of her ex-girlfriend. The sentencing followed Wu’s guilty plea to charges of manslaughter and attempted murder.
The 2021 Shooting Incident
The tragic events unfolded on October 13, 2021, when Wu, 34, used her NYPD-issued firearm to shoot her ex-girlfriend, Jenny Li, and Li’s new partner, Jamie Liang, in a Brooklyn home. Wu, who was off duty at the time, fatally shot Liang and seriously wounded Li, who survived but faced a long road to recovery.
“The moment was a living nightmare, having to watch a life being taken in front of my eyes and being able to do nothing about it,” Li recounted during the sentencing, according to the Daily News. She described the physical and emotional toll the shooting has taken on her, including the need to relearn basic functions like walking and sitting up.
Impact on the Victims’ Families
Jamie Liang’s father, Ying Cai Liang, spoke of the profound loss his family has suffered. He described his daughter as “genuine, kind, caring, and the most selfless person you would ever meet.” Liang’s untimely death has left her family and friends grappling with deep sorrow.
Jenny Li, reflecting on the life that was taken, expressed her grief over the loss of someone who had “a whole life ahead of her.” Li spoke of the ongoing anxiety and grief that she endures, and the impact of the violent act on her life.
Wu’s Apology and Guilty Plea
Wu, who was initially charged with murder, pleaded guilty in June to the reduced charges of manslaughter and attempted murder. During her sentencing, she expressed deep remorse for her actions.
“I want to say I’m sorry to everyone who’s been affected,” Wu said in court. “I’m so sorry. You guys will never forgive me and I’ll never forgive myself.”
Prosecution and Sentencing
The case was prosecuted by the state attorney general’s office due to Wu’s status as a police officer. The 27-year sentence handed down by the court brings some measure of closure to a case that shocked the community and highlighted the tragic consequences of domestic violence.
