The parents of an Auckland woman who was stabbed to death by her ex-partner are committed to do their best to raise the child left behind.
Xi Wang, 34, was murdered by Ephraim Beazley while holding their two-year-old son in her arms.
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Beazley was sentenced to life in prison on Tuesday, and must serve at least 17 years in jail before he is eligible for parole.
After the sentencing, Wang's parents released a statement via New Zealand Police expressing their grief.
"We have lost our daughter, Beazley's family have lost their son, a big loss for both families," it reads.
Mrs Xi and Mr Wong also expressed their intention to dedicate their lives to raising their grandson.
"My only hope is for my grandson, to see him grow up happily and healthy would be the main factor sustaining the rest of my life," the statement continues.
"We will try our best to make him a person his mother, our daughter, would like him to be - an honest and loving person."
A victim impact statement read to the court during sentencing described Wang as a highly intelligent person and a devoted mother.
The statement, read on behalf of a friend of the victim, said Wang's young son is devastated and constantly asks after his mother.
Acting Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers said the case was a tragedy.
"This is a tragic reminder of the devastating impact that family harm has on whanau - a young boy has lost his mother and his father will be spending some time in prison," Vickers said in a statement.
"Nothing can bring Xi back, but we hope the decision brings some comfort to the family."
Newshub.
