STILLWATER, Okla. — A 27-year-old local man is facing serious charges after allegedly shooting his ex-girlfriend in front of their young son during a family dispute. The incident occurred on Easter morning, leading to a nationwide manhunt before he was apprehended in Kansas.
Connor Allen Kinnamon has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of Audrey Adams, 27. Authorities reported that Kinnamon shot Adams in the head amid an escalating argument at a residence in Payne County on April 5. The confrontation, reportedly stemming from a family visit, quickly spiraled into lethal violence.
Court documents indicate that Kinnamon’s actions were intentional, although an alternative charge of first-degree manslaughter is also being considered. Should he be convicted of murder, he faces a potential life sentence. In contrast, a manslaughter conviction could result in a prison term ranging from four years to life. Kinnamon is currently being held without bond at the Payne County Jail, awaiting a preliminary hearing.
In a probable cause affidavit, investigators detailed how Adams had traveled from Tulsa the day prior to see her son. Tensions flared between her and Kinnamon, initially leading to a minor physical altercation. Despite attempts by Kinnamon’s mother to intervene, the argument continued. Adams reportedly called her own mother to pick them up, which further agitated Kinnamon.
The fatal shooting occurred near the front door of the home. Witnesses stated that Adams was holding their son when Kinnamon, who was in close proximity, made a statement about self-harm before pulling the trigger. Emergency responders arrived promptly but were unable to revive Adams, who was pronounced dead shortly after 2:00 a.m.
Miraculously, the child was unharmed during the chaos. Following the gunfire, Adams’ mother escaped with him, while Kinnamon fled in his mother’s vehicle. His mother dialed 911 to report the incident, leading to a swift response from law enforcement.
Investigators escalated the search for Kinnamon, particularly due to his concerning remarks about self-harm. They tracked his movements via cellphone pings, which indicated he was traveling north toward Kansas. Shortly before 5 a.m., law enforcement in Sumner County apprehended him on Interstate 35 without incident.
Following his arrest, investigators recovered evidence from both the residence and the vehicle, including a spent 9 mm casing at the scene. Toxicology tests are pending to determine if substance use could have played a role in the events.
The legal proceedings now hinge on whether prosecutors can establish sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. Kinnamon’s next court appearance is slated for May 4, where he will have the opportunity to request a preliminary hearing. This hearing could include testimony and evidence regarding the case and Kinnamon’s alleged confession.
Audrey Adams’ family has been left grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event. As they await further developments, the ramifications of the shooting echo through their lives, leaving many unanswered questions about the circumstances leading up to that fateful morning. Kinnamon, presumed innocent until proven guilty, remains in custody as the case unfolds.