Lake George, New York – A man was convicted of second-degree murder for fatally shooting a young woman after she mistakenly drove up his driveway in rural New York. The defendant, Kevin Monahan, was found guilty for the death of 20-year-old Kaylin Gillis in 2023.
Monahan, who had pleaded not guilty to the charges, was also convicted of reckless endangerment and tampering with physical evidence in relation to Gillis’ death. The district attorney is seeking a maximum sentence of 25 years to life for Monahan.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that the defendant acted recklessly when the victim and her companions used his driveway to turn their vehicles. Monahan, however, testified that he felt threatened and only intended to protect himself and his wife.
The tragic incident took place when Gillis and her friends were looking for a friend’s house in Washington County, approximately 55 miles north of Albany. Monahan claimed that he fired a warning shot into the air, but a fatal shot was fired when he lost his balance on his deck.
Gillis was fatally shot just days after a Black teenager in Kansas City was shot by a White homeowner after going to the wrong address, sparking discussions about racial disparities in the justice system. However, it is important to note that both Monahan and Gillis are White.
Following the shooting, the group drove away from the house and called 911 for help. Despite the efforts of first responders, Gillis was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim’s family described her as a kind and talented individual who was just beginning to find her way in the world. Gillis, a graduate from Schuylerville High School, held the position of “flyer” on the cheerleading team and aspired to become a marine biologist.
As the case continues to unfold, it has raised important questions about self-defense, the use of lethal force, and the tragic consequences of misunderstandings. The impact of such incidents extends beyond the courtroom, highlighting the irreplaceable loss of a young life and the profound grief experienced by the victim’s loved ones.