Verdict Reached in Adam Fravel Trial for Murder of Madeline Kingsbury

A jury has reached a verdict in the trial of Adam Fravel, who is accused of killing his ex-girlfriend and the mother of his two children, Madeline Kingsbury. The verdict is expected to be read at 11:05 a.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024.

Fravel is facing multiple charges, including premeditated first-degree murder, first-degree murder with a past pattern of domestic abuse, second-degree murder with intent, and second-degree murder while committing a felony. The jury began deliberating on Wednesday afternoon after closing arguments were presented and resumed their deliberations on Thursday morning.

The trial, which was moved to Blue Earth County to ensure an unbiased jury, focused heavily on allegations of domestic violence perpetrated by Fravel during his seven-year relationship with Kingsbury. Prosecutors argued that Fravel had the motive, means, and opportunity to kill Kingsbury, citing his history of abuse and his alleged jealousy over Kingsbury’s new relationship.

Kingsbury was reported missing in March 2023 after dropping off their two children at a daycare in Winona. Her body was found four months later in a culvert near Fravel’s parents’ home, wrapped in a bedsheet with a towel knotted around her head, which prosecutors say was used to suffocate her.

During the trial, witnesses including Kingsbury’s family and friends testified about Fravel’s controlling and abusive behavior. The defense argued that investigators had “tunnel vision” and focused solely on Fravel, ignoring other potential evidence.

If convicted of first-degree murder, Fravel faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.