Arizona man sentenced for stabbing wife after she sought annulment

A 38-year-old man, identified as S. Dennis, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison for the brutal killing of his wife, 37-year-old A. Grant, a mother of two, after she expressed her desire to annul their marriage. Dennis pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in a case that prosecutors and loved ones called an act of betrayal and devastating domestic violence.

On September 9, 2024, police responded to a parking lot after witnesses reported chilling screams for help. Officers found Grant slumped in the driver’s seat of her vehicle, suffering from multiple stab wounds. Despite her injuries, she identified Dennis as her attacker before losing consciousness—a statement authorities described as a “dying declaration.” Paramedics rushed her to the hospital, but she died shortly after arrival.

Witnesses said Dennis fled the scene moments before emergency crews arrived. One recalled him arguing briefly with someone before grabbing a bag and running. Later, Dennis called 911, confessed to stabbing his wife, and told authorities where to find the knife. He admitted the attack followed a heated argument about ending their brief marriage.

The tragedy deeply shook the community. County Attorney R. Mitchell condemned the crime, saying:

“This wasn’t just a violent crime — it was an act of betrayal carried out by someone who should have been a source of safety, not fear.”

Friends and family remembered Grant as hopeful, driven, and vibrant—an entrepreneur, cosmetologist, author, and model who lived with determination and perseverance. A GoFundMe page described her as a woman who believed in herself and worked tirelessly to create a better life for her children.

Grant leaves behind two young children, now facing life without their mother. While the 18-year sentence delivers a measure of justice, loved ones say the loss is immeasurable. Prosecutors emphasized that the outcome underscores their commitment to holding abusers accountable: domestic violence will not be ignored, and those who betray trust with violence will face justice.