PORTLAND, Ore. — The man who shot and killed a mother of two whose body was found near Reed College last April was sentenced to 23 years Thursday, according to the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office.
Adam Jamal Burns, 30, was sentenced by a judge to 23 years in prison for the domestic violence homicide of 28-year-old April Newcombe Cripe in 2023.
On April 25, 2023, police responded to 5001 Southeast 30th Avenue near Reed College and found a woman, Newcombe Cripe, who had been shot to death in front of a unit at Wimbledon Square Apartments.
Newcombe Cripe had lived in the complex with her two children, who were later found safely inside by police.
Law enforcement investigated, leading them to Newcombe Cripe's husband, the father of her children. Newcombe Cripe had expressed concerns about Burns killing her or planning to have her killed, and Burns' car had been seen on the apartment complex’s video surveillance minutes before police were called.
The gun involved in the shooting was also recovered and linked to Burns, said the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office.
Last May, authorities issued a warrant for Burns' arrest, and U.S. Marshals arrested him with help from Vancouver police. Burns then pleaded guilty on Aug. 22, 2024, and was sentenced by Judge Jenna Plank. Burns has been transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections, where he will remain for his sentence.
If you or someone you know have experienced domestic violence and need support, help is available. Here are some resources:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788
- Love is Respect Hotline (for youth): 866-331-9474 or text LOVEIS to 22522
- Call to Safety (local 24/7 crisis line): 503-235-5333
- UNICA (local 24/7 Spanish language crisis line): 503-232-4448
- The Gateway Center (range of domestic violence services in Multnomah County): 503-988-6400
