Jiang, a Chicago native, was a U.S. Army veteran and National Guard reservist. He was described by his parents, fiance, friends, professors and military comrades as a joyful friend, a faith-filled Christian, a brilliant student and a brave soldier.

The 26-year-old had plans to head to law school to study environmental law and had grand ambitions to use his skills and knowledge to help protect the planet.

But his “beautiful and joyful life was shattered,” his mother Linda Liu told the judge.

Liu said Pan “killed my dear and only son Kevin out of fear and hatred.”

Perry also spoke, reading biblical scripture and offering Pan the hope of justice mixed with mercy.

Pastor Greg Hendrickson, who led the New Haven church that Jiang attended, said that just before Jiang’s murder, he received a call with the news that Jiang and Perry were engaged. He asked his pastor to officiate his wedding.

A week later, he got another call informing him that Jiang was dead.

Hendrickson said Jiang exemplified honor and devotion to his parents and had a bright future awaiting him.

That future, and the support he provided his family — emotionally, spiritually and financially — “was snatched away.”

Liu also spoke of the moment she received the call that her only son had died.

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