Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Crime: A Jealous Plot Unfolds
- The Trial: Two Hours of Deliberation
- Closing Arguments: A Web of Jealousy and Deception
- The Motive: Love, Lies, and Betrayal
- Witness Testimonies: Friends and Lovers
- The Escape: A 43-Day Run to Costa Rica
- Arrest and Dramatic Chase: Armstrong’s Last Stand
- Defense’s Counter: DNA and Ballistics
- The Verdict: Guilty of Murder
- Punishment Phase: What Lies Ahead
- Conclusion
Introduction
In a tragic turn of events, Kaitlin Armstrong, 37, has been found guilty of the murder of pro cyclist Moriah “Mo” Wilson in a chilling crime rooted in jealousy. The Texas jury reached a verdict after just over two hours of deliberation.
The Crime: A Jealous Plot Unfolds
Armstrong was accused of fatally shooting 25-year-old Wilson, who had gone on a date with Armstrong’s on-and-off boyfriend, Colin Strickland. The prosecution argued that Armstrong, driven by jealousy, orchestrated the murder minutes after Strickland dropped Wilson off at a friend’s apartment in Austin.
The Trial: Two Hours of Deliberation
The swift deliberation led to a guilty verdict, leaving Armstrong’s defense attorney, Rick Cofer, without comment due to an existing gag order. The punishment phase of the trial has commenced, where both sides are expected to present their case.
Closing Arguments: A Web of Jealousy and Deception
During closing arguments, prosecutor Rickey Jones played footage from the night of the murder, capturing Wilson’s screams outside the apartment. Jones emphasized Armstrong’s unique anger, evident in her circling of the area before the fatal shot.
The Motive: Love, Lies, and Betrayal
To build a motive of jealousy, prosecutors called Strickland to the stand. The defense portrayed him as manipulative, emphasizing his willingness to provide misinformation. Armstrong allegedly used the Strava app to stalk Wilson and had access to Strickland’s communication accounts.
Witness Testimonies: Friends and Lovers
Friends testified about Armstrong’s jealousy and discussions of harming Wilson, although they didn’t take her seriously. Nicole Mertz, a close friend, stated, “It wasn’t about anyone in particular, seemed like something you say when you are angry.”
The Escape: A 43-Day Run to Costa Rica
Following the murder, Armstrong eluded the authorities for 43 days. She sold her Jeep, underwent plastic surgery in Costa Rica, and evaded capture. Prosecutors revealed she monitored news about the international manhunt and even explored altering her fingerprints with pineapples.
Arrest and Dramatic Chase: Armstrong’s Last Stand
Armstrong was eventually captured on Santa Teresa Beach, Costa Rica, armed with a plastic surgery receipt, her sister’s passport, and a list of defense attorneys. Last month, she attempted to escape from Travis County jail guards, leading them on a 10-minute foot chase before capture.
Defense’s Counter: DNA and Ballistics
Armstrong’s defense challenged the state’s ballistics and DNA evidence, arguing they were insufficient to prove her guilt. They contended that the police had “tunnel vision” and prematurely focused on Armstrong as the suspect.
The Verdict: Guilty of Murder
The jury’s decision marked a crucial moment, as Armstrong was pronounced guilty of the murder of Mo Wilson. The defense’s assertions regarding evidence and police focus were not enough to sway the jury.
Punishment Phase: What Lies Ahead
With the guilt established, the trial now proceeds to the punishment phase. Both sides have waived opening statements, and the state plans to present victim impact statements from Wilson’s family and friend Caitlin Cash.
Conclusion
The conviction of Kaitlin Armstrong in the murder of Moriah Wilson brings a tragic love triangle to a courtroom conclusion. As the legal proceedings unfold, questions remain about the motives, emotions, and actions that led to this devastating crime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was Armstrong’s defense strategy? A: Armstrong’s defense focused on challenging the DNA and ballistics evidence, claiming it was insufficient to prove her involvement. They also argued that the police had prematurely fixated on her as the suspect.
Q: How long did Armstrong evade capture? A: Armstrong managed to avoid authorities for 43 days, during which she sold her vehicle, underwent plastic surgery in Costa Rica, and closely monitored the international manhunt.
Q: What led to Armstrong’s capture? A: Armstrong was eventually captured on Santa Teresa Beach, Costa Rica, after attempting to escape from Travis County jail guards. The dramatic 10-minute foot chase resulted in her capture a mile away.
Q: What happens in the punishment phase of the trial? A: The punishment phase involves presenting victim impact statements from Wilson’s family and friends. The court will determine the appropriate sentencing for Kaitlin Armstrong based on these statements and other factors.
Q: How did Armstrong allegedly stalk Wilson? A: Prosecutors claimed that Armstrong used the Strava app to track Wilson’s location and had access to Colin Strickland’s Apple and Gmail accounts, allowing her to read his texts and emails.