BUFFALO, N.Y. — The words prosecutors used before 17-year-old Lawren Goins was sentenced Tuesday: "Suddenly and senselessly."

Equally harsh words then came from the judge.

"An uncivilized person shoots someone he doesn’t even know. A coward shoots them in the back. These two young men are hurt or dead because they're from a different neighborhood—that that is the case is barbaric," said Hon. Christopher Burns, State Supreme Court justice.

In November, Goins pleaded guilty to manslaughter and attempted murder for gunning down 16-year-olds Kristian Piazza and Terrell Lockett, killing Piazza on October 13, 2016 on LeRoy Avenue and Hill Street in Buffalo. Goins was also 16 at the time. He was arrested last April for the crimes.

"Kristian Piazza was one week shy of his 17th birthday at the time. His only sin, your honor, was apparently living in the wrong neighborhood, a different neighborhood than this defendant. Instead of planning for college, his family ended up making funeral arrangements," said Michael Smith, assistant district attorney.

Burns said, "I would require you to read Mrs. Piazza's letter, which would bring tears to a normal person's eyes, but I don't think it would mean anything to you."

Goins' attorney talked about a good kid who was a counselor during the mayor's summer youth intern program but struggled academically.

He also mentioned that Goins' himself had been shot on two separate occasions and lost two cousins to gun violence.

"Lawren knows firsthand how devastating such a tragedy can be to a family. As such, Lawren is capable of sincere and true empathy for those who lost a loved one in this case. When discussing the victims, Lawren's remorse, shame, and sadness is clear," said Defense Attorney Michael Seiber.

Goins' did speak on his behalf in court in front of both his and the victims' families.

"Judge, there are no words that change what happened. I would just like to say I am very sorry that I engaged in an act that was very vicious," said Goins.

Judge Burns responded saying, "If everything you're saying is true, then why did you do this?"

"Honestly, I don't know. I just was acting like an animal and had a lot of emotions burdening on me," said Goins.

In the end, Judge Burns denied youthful offender status and instead sentenced Goins to the maximum of 25 years in prison, without the chance for parole. 

"When will these lessons be learned? As it is, the gang culture will go on, and you will soon be forgotten. Then some other man will take your place in the courtroom, and more grief is going to follow," said Burns.