Father attacks daughter’s killer in court

In Cleveland, a dramatic moment unfolded in court when the father of one of serial killer Michael Madison’s victims attempted to attack him just minutes after a death sentence was handed down.

The emotional outburst came from Van Terry, the father of Shirellda Terry, one of three women murdered by Madison. The courtroom had just heard the judge’s decision to sentence Madison to death for the killings.

Before the incident, Terry had approached the podium to deliver a victim impact statement, speaking to the court about the pain and grief his family endured.

During his speech, Terry expressed the difficulty of finding forgiveness for the man who had taken his daughter’s life. He referred to Madison as a “clown” and questioned how anyone could be expected to forgive such a person.

After making that statement, Terry turned to look at Madison, who was seated at the defense table just behind him.

In a sudden moment of emotion and anger, Terry charged toward Madison, leaping over the courtroom table in an apparent attempt to physically confront him.

Court officers quickly intervened, restraining Terry before he could reach Madison, and restoring order in the courtroom. The incident underscored the intense grief and emotion surrounding the case.