In a tragic turn of events stemming from a volatile relationship, 27-year-old Kwan Andre Winston, a male, lost his life on March 13, 2022, in Wyoming, Michigan. The fatal incident unfolded as a result of a domestic disturbance that ended with Winston being shot and killed. His girlfriend, 21-year-old Sakina Muhammad, was identified as the suspect.
Following the shooting, Muhammad fled the scene with their 11-month-old child, prompting a search by law enforcement. They were later located at a residence in Grand Rapids, where Muhammad was taken into custody. An investigation into the shooting led to charges against Muhammad, including open murder and a felony firearm offense. The court denied her bond.
The case revealed a troubled history between the couple, marked by domestic violence. Court records indicated that Winston had previously been charged with domestic violence against Muhammad on multiple occasions since 2019. Despite existing court orders intended to keep them apart, they were reportedly living together at the time of the shooting.
During her trial in November 2023, Sakina Muhammad claimed that she acted in self-defense. However, the prosecution presented a different narrative, with witnesses testifying that Winston was heard begging for his life before he was shot. Neighbors also described Muhammad as the primary aggressor in their tumultuous relationship. After considering the evidence, the jury rejected her claim of self-defense and found her guilty of first-degree murder and felony firearm.
In January 2024, Sakina Muhammad was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of Kwan Andre Winston. She received an additional two-year sentence for the firearm conviction. At the sentencing, Winston's mother delivered an emotional statement, expressing the profound and lasting pain her family has endured. Muhammad also spoke briefly, offering an apology to her daughter. Her defense attorney has indicated their intention to appeal the verdict.
