A horrific family tragedy in upstate New York has ended in a decades-long prison sentence for the man behind the violence. n May 15, 2025, a Delaware County court sentenced 33-year-old Drew J. Garnier to 30 years in prison after he admitted to fatally stabbing his pregnant wife and injuring their two children during a rage-fueled outburst. The shocking case, which unfolded in the quiet town of Masonville, has drawn attention for its brutality and the lasting trauma inflicted on the victims.
The incident took place in September 2024 at the family’s residence at 330 Houck Road. New York State Police responded to an emergency call just before midnight about a domestic disturbance.
Upon arrival, they found 29-year-old Samantha Garnier critically injured and her two children suffering from serious stab wounds. Samantha was airlifted to Wilson Hospital but succumbed to her injuries. Her unborn daughter couldn’t be saved either. The couple’s two children were transported to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, where they underwent treatment and are expected to survive. Drew, who was 32 at the time, was arrested at the scene after receiving minor medical care at A. O. Fox Hospital.
He was initially charged with second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree attempted murder, but in March, he pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter and two counts of first-degree assault. While passing the sentence, Delaware County Court Judge John L. Hubbard stated that Drew’s actions were difficult to comprehend and highlighted the permanent harm inflicted upon his family. “You took a life and injured your children,” the judge stated. “They had a right to expect protection from you.”
The courtroom heard emotional testimony from Samantha’s father, who revealed the possible motive behind the attack. Drew’s anger, he claimed, might have stemmed from disappointment about the baby’s gender, as Drew had hoped for a boy.
He also shared that he has since adopted the two girls and vowed to care for them following their mother’s murder. He expressed his commitment, saying he was now their dad and would “protect them.” Delaware County District Attorney Shawn J. Smith opposed Drew’s request to contact the children in the future and urged for the strongest no-contact order.
The judge granted the request but included a provision allowing a court to reconsider if the children ever wished to reestablish contact.
In his closing remarks, the district attorney acknowledged the lasting pain felt by Samantha’s family and extended support. “While nothing we do can bring Samantha back, her killer has been put where he belongs,” he said. Unfortunately, violent acts among family members aren’t uncommon. As previously reported, authorities in Phoenix arrested a man accused of fatally shooting his brother, a well-known attorney, and later returning to the scene of the crime.
