Kaitlin Armstrong, a Texas yoga instructor, has been sentenced to 90 years in prison for the murder of professional cyclist Anna Moriah “Mo” Wilson. The sentencing decision was reached by the jury after several hours of deliberation and also included a $10,000 fine. Armstrong was found guilty of first-degree murder after a brief deliberation of fewer than three hours.
Wilson, a 25-year-old rising gravel racer, was found with multiple gunshot wounds at a friend’s home in Austin, Texas, on May 11, 2022. Police believed it to be a targeted homicide. Armstrong, who was romantically linked to Wilson’s then-boyfriend, was arrested in Costa Rica after a 43-day manhunt and charged with first-degree murder.
During the sentencing hearing, Wilson’s family members spoke about the impact of her death on their lives. Her father, Eric Wilson, expressed his belief that justice had been served and said they were ready to move forward with healing. Armstrong’s family also presented witnesses in her defense.
Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented evidence, including video, cellphone records, ballistic evidence, and DNA evidence, to establish Armstrong’s guilt. They argued that Armstrong had access to her boyfriend’s communication with Wilson and was able to track Wilson’s location through a fitness app. A DNA expert testified that Armstrong’s DNA was found on Wilson’s bicycle. Prosecutors also presented evidence that linked Armstrong’s vehicle to the crime scene.
The defense maintained that Armstrong was wrongfully accused and argued that the evidence against her was circumstantial. They claimed that the police focused on Armstrong as a “spurned, jealous lover” and failed to investigate other potential suspects. Armstrong chose not to testify in her defense.
After being interviewed by police, Armstrong sold her vehicle and fled to Costa Rica. She was arrested at a hostel in June 2022 after a 43-day search. Armstrong was also charged with escape causing bodily injury after briefly evading authorities while being transported for a medical appointment.
Wilson’s family expressed their belief that justice had been served with Armstrong’s sentencing. They stated their determination to move forward and continue healing, honoring Wilson’s memory.
This article was originally published on abcnews.go.com.
