WESTMORELAND, Tenn. (WTVF) — Michael Cummins pleaded guilty on all counts in the April 2019 incident that left eight people dead.
The case is known as one of the worst mass murders in Tennessee history. Six bodies were found in a Westmoreland home and two more were at another location.
Those dead included his parents, his uncle and a child. His grandmother who was also one of the victims in the attack, survived and recovered from her physical injuries.
The case has left a scar on the community and stands as one of the darkest chapters in the state's history.
The courtroom witnessed moments of raw emotion from those whose lives were forever altered by his actions.
"I’m at a loss for words. I'd like to know why, but obviously, we’ll never find that out," said Steve McGlothlin, a bereaved family member who lost his mother, sister, and 12-year-old niece in the April 2019 tragedy.
McGlothlin's words captured the profound grief experienced by those who were affected by the senseless acts of violence.
Even as the victims' families sought closure and answers, Cummins' own family was left grappling with the unfathomable reality of his actions.
Anthony Davis, the father of 12-year-old Sapphire, was too overcome with emotion to address the court directly. The family of Jim Dunn, whose body was discovered near his burned-down cabin, reflected on the unique pain of losing a loved one to murder.
"Death of a loved one is hard. I've buried two parents. Murder of a loved one is something entirely different. It hits harder, it is unnatural," said Brad Dunn.
In an unexpected moment, even Michael Cummins' aunt, who was undoubtedly shaken by the gravity of the situation, addressed the court, expressing her love for her nephew while struggling to understand the motivations behind his actions.
"I love you, son. I don’t understand what happened, but turn yourself over to God, please," said Carlotta Meadows.
Despite the prosecution's initial push for the death penalty, the court ultimately decided on a life sentence without parole. Ray Whitley, District Attorney for the 18th Judicial District, explained that although the state believed there was enough evidence to warrant the death penalty, new evidence from the defense like Cummin's brain scan showed proof of mental illness.
Whitley conveyed that the conviction provided a sense of justice for the victims and their families, acknowledging that it marked a significant step toward healing in the wake of such a devastating event.
During Wednesday's hearing, multiple victim statements were broken down below.
Steve McGlothlin, related to 12-year-old Sapphire McGlothlin-Pee, Rachel Dawn McGlothlin-Pee and Marsha Elizabeth Nuckols.
Anthony West, father of Sapphire McGlothlin-Pee
Connor Dunn, uncle to James Fox Dunn Jr.
Brad Dunn, James Fox Dunn Jr.'s brother
Carlotta Meadows, Michael's aunt, Clara Cummins' sister
