dispatch call from the scene ….

dispatch call from the scene created many tears from family members and friends in the packed courtroom.

The judge was provided many written impact statements from Brunelle’s family members and friends.

After Brunelle’s mother read her impact statement aloud during the hearing, many in the courtroom shed tears including the defendant.

Slater’s mother testified, “There’s no words that we can say as a family how it affected you guys to take the pain away.”

She said she hurts and prays for the Brunelle family often. “That night changed all of us. They were cousins, they were friends, they were best friends,” she said. “I don’t think either would intentionally hurt the other.”

Later, Slater faced the family and said he was sorry and wishes he could change everything. “It kills me inside.”