PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A Mayfair man who admitted to fatally shooting his neighbor two years ago was sentenced Thursday morning to seven to 20 years behind bars.
William Pulver, 66, pleaded guilty last November to third-degree murder and gun offenses for the June 2024 killing.
He admitted to shooting 65-year-old Patricia Shinn several times in the back over an ongoing dispute where they lived along Montague Street, near Princeton Avenue.
During an emotional sentencing hearing on Thursday, Shinn’s husband told the court that she was a loving, giving and kind mother, wife and sister who survived years fighting breast cancer.
Her son told the judge that his mom would give everything she had, loved animals and children, and had a passion for Philly sports. Two of the victim’s sisters also spoke about her dedication to family.
Pulver’s attorney said his client has significant mental health issues and has been struggling with addiction. He said Pulver is extremely remorseful for what he did.
When asked during the hearing, Pulver declined to speak or apologize.
