MASONVILLE, NY – A man who fatally stabbed his pregnant wife and wounded their two young daughters has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term, with relatives expressing grief and anger over motives they described as rooted in disappointment over the unborn child’s gender.

Drew Garnier, 33, pleaded guilty earlier this year to murdering Samantha Garnier, 29, his wife, who was five months pregnant with their third daughter when he attacked her on Sept. 4, 2024. Garnier also admitted to assaulting their daughters, ages 6 and 9, during the violent episode.

The incident unfolded at the family’s home when New York State Police responded to a domestic disturbance call two days post-Labor Day. Authorities found Samantha Garnier critically injured, and she succumbed to her injuries after being airlifted to a hospital. The girls received medical treatment for stab wounds and have since recovered. Drew Garnier was apprehended at the scene and treated for minor injuries.

During the sentencing hearing, Samantha’s father delivered an emotional statement, revealing that Drew Garnier’s motive was allegedly rooted in his desire for a son. “He had wanted a boy,” the grieving father stated, adding that the brutal crime has left lasting trauma on the surviving daughters.

As the daughters’ de facto guardian, he expressed his commitment to their well-being, proclaiming, “I am their father now. I will protect them.” The courtroom’s atmosphere was heavy with emotion as he spoke of the loss and ongoing impact on the family.

Drew Garnier requested permission to maintain contact with his daughters while serving his sentence, a plea met with opposition from the prosecution. Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith insisted on no-contact orders, which were granted by Judge John Hubbard, though the judge left open the possibility for the daughters to initiate contact should they choose in the future.

A stay-away order was issued until 2056 for both girls, a point Drew Garnier contested by refusing to sign the documentation. Addressing Garnier directly, Judge Hubbard highlighted the seriousness of his actions, stating, “You took a life and injured your children. They had a right to expect protection from you.”

Under the terms of his plea agreement, Drew Garnier received a sentence of 30 years in prison, followed by 15 years of probation upon his release, sealing his fate as the family grapples with the aftermath of this harrowing tragedy.