A Minnesota man, Adam Fravel, was found guilty of first-degree murder in the killing of his girlfriend, Madeline Kingsbury, whose disappearance in 2023 sparked a nationwide search effort. The 26-year-old Kingsbury went missing in March 2023 after dropping off their two young children at daycare in Winona, Minnesota.
The trial, held in Mankato, Minnesota, focused on testimonies from family and friends of the couple regarding alleged instances of domestic abuse. Prosecutors argued that Kingsbury had planned to leave Fravel due to his abusive behavior and inadequate contributions to their family, leading Fravel to commit the murder.
Witnesses testified to seeing bruises on Kingsbury's neck and recounted incidents of alleged abuse, including one where Fravel was said to have hit Kingsbury during a FaceTime call. Additionally, a friend testified that Kingsbury had confided in her about Fravel's threats, referencing the high-profile case of Gabby Petito.
The prosecution presented evidence linking Fravel to the crime scene, including items found in their home that matched those used to conceal Kingsbury's body. The medical examiner concluded that Kingsbury likely died of asphyxiation, with evidence suggesting she was strangled with a towel.
Fravel's defense attorney challenged the prosecution's narrative, pointing to a lack of physical struggle in the couple's home and testimonies from neighbors who claimed to have never witnessed any arguments between the couple.
The jury delivered the guilty verdict after a brief deliberation, with emotional reactions from both families present in the courtroom. Fravel is set to be sentenced on December 17, following the conclusion of the trial.
