John Lee Cowell sentenced to life in prison without parole in Oakland BART stabbing of Nia Wilson

Friday, July 17, 2020
OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) -- John Lee Cowell has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the 2018 fatal stabbing of 18-year-old Nia Wilson at MacArthur BART Station in Oakland.

Cowell was found guilty of murder, lying in wait, and attempted murder of Wilson's sister.
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Cowell pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.

The Alameda County DA released the following statement on Friday:

"Today brings to close one of the most tragic murder cases in recent memory. The horrific killing of Nia Wilson and the assault on her sister will haunt her family, loved ones and our community forever. Mr. Cowell will now serve the remainder of his life in prison. It is my hope that Nia's family feels that justice was served and can continue on the path of healing."

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