A tragic case of domestic violence has led to an 18-year prison sentence for an Arizona man who admitted to stabbing his newlywed wife during an argument. The incident shocked the community and left two children without their mother.
A Deadly Argument Between Newlyweds
Stephen Dennis, 38, and Aliccia Grant, 37, were recently married, but things between them quickly turned sour. On the early morning of September 9, 2024, the couple was inside a red Toyota Prius parked outside a Home Depot in north Phoenix.
According to witnesses, they heard a woman screaming for help. When people came closer, they found Aliccia badly injured in the driver’s seat, bleeding from several stab wounds. Stephen Dennis was sitting in the passenger seat. He got out of the car, argued with a bystander, grabbed a bag, and fled the scene.
Her Last Words Named Her Killer
Police officers who arrived first on the scene tried to save Aliccia by applying pressure to her wounds. In her final moments, she gave a “dying declaration” and clearly said Dennis was the one who stabbed her.
She was taken to the hospital by paramedics, but despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead.
Not long after the stabbing, Dennis himself called 911 and confessed. He told the police that he had stabbed his wife and even shared the location of the murder weapon, which was later recovered by officers.
The Reason Behind the Murder
Dennis told investigators that the couple had been arguing about getting an annulment. The fight turned deadly, ending in an act of violence that left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
“This wasn’t just a violent crime — it was an act of betrayal,” said Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “A relationship should be built on trust and safety. This was the exact opposite.”
Justice and Remembrance
Dennis pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and received an 18-year prison sentence. There is no mention of parole, meaning he is likely to serve most, if not all, of the sentence.
Aliccia Grant’s death has left a deep void in her family and friend circle. She was a mother of two and was remembered as a woman full of hope, dreams, and determination.
According to a GoFundMe page created in her honour:
She was a self-made entrepreneur
She worked as a cosmetologist, author, and model
She believed strongly in chasing dreams with confidence and courage
A Reminder of the Dangers of Domestic Violence
This heartbreaking case is yet another reminder of the devastating effects of domestic violence. It also shows how quickly things can escalate when emotional issues and unresolved conflicts go unchecked. Loved ones must watch for warning signs and seek help early before arguments turn deadly.
