Digest

This podcast episode details the brutal murder of Alyssa Burkett, a young mother, on October 2, 2020. Initially appearing random, the attack was revealed to be a premeditated act orchestrated by her ex-partner, Andrew Beard, and his new girlfriend, Holly Elkins. The couple engaged in a prolonged campaign of harassment, including cyberstalking, GPS tracking, and planting evidence to destabilize Alyssa's life and gain custody of their daughter, Willow. The investigation uncovered extensive planning, including the purchase of tools for the attack and attempts to conceal evidence. Both Andrew and Holly were eventually arrested, charged, and convicted for their roles in the murder, with Holly receiving two life sentences and Andrew pleading guilty to cyberstalking and murder. The episode highlights the devastating impact of their actions on Alyssa's family, particularly her daughter.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction to the Case and Victim

The podcast opens with the shocking details of a violent attack on a young mother, Alyssa Burkett, on October 2, 2020, revealing it was a planned act. Alyssa is introduced as a strong-willed 24-year-old assistant office manager, detailing her early life and career.

00:04:26

Relationship, Pregnancy, and Escalating Conflict

Alyssa's relationship with Andrew Beard, an older, established man, is explored, leading to their daughter Willow's birth. Their relationship deteriorates due to custody disputes, with Andrew seeking full custody and Alyssa fearing his resources would be used against her.

00:08:07

New Relationships, Renewed Hostility, and Fear

Both Alyssa and Andrew move on to new relationships. Andrew's new partner, Holly Elkins, becomes hostile, and Andrew escalates custody demands. Alyssa expresses increasing fear of being tracked and watched by Andrew, with friends and family corroborating her concerns. A video from Alyssa reveals her struggles and dread.

00:12:54

The Investigation: A Planned Attack Unfolds

Investigators determine Alyssa's murder was a methodical, sustained campaign, not a crime of passion. Holly Elkins is shown to be actively involved, making false accusations and engaging in a campaign against Alyssa.

00:16:31

Planting Evidence and Premeditation

Holly and Andrew hire a private investigator and allegedly plant evidence in Alyssa's car to have her arrested. Investigators uncover a timeline of deliberate actions, including the purchase of a rain suit, vehicle, and weapons, indicating premeditation. Text messages and searches for removing gunpowder residue further solidify their intent.

00:20:15

The Murder and Initial Investigation

Two days after Alyssa is awarded custody, she is ambushed and brutally murdered. Initial suspicions fall on Andrew, and investigators find multiple cell phones and concerning internet searches on him. GPS trackers on Alyssa's and her boyfriend's vehicles confirm she was being watched.

00:24:48

Forensic Evidence and Perpetrator's Home

An abandoned SUV, believed to be used in the murder, is found with evidence of disguise. A search of Andrew's home reveals notes with Alyssa's details, a spy bot battery, and a third GPS tracker. A .22 caliber revolver and a homemade silencer are discovered in his garage, leading to his arrest.

00:31:44

Federal Involvement and Broader Case

Holly's suspicious internet searches and the discovery of an unregistered silencer lead to federal involvement. Prosecutors build a case encompassing months of cyberstalking, tracking, and manipulation, framing the murder as the culmination of a long campaign.

00:35:24

Plea Agreements and Direct Involvement

Holly leaves Texas while the investigation continues. Andrew pleads guilty and cooperates, implicating Holly in the planning, including instructions for a disguise.

00:37:41

Holly's Arrest, Trial, and Conviction

Holly Elkins is arrested and charged with conspiracy, stalking, and brandishing a firearm. Her trial begins, and she is found guilty on all counts.

00:44:13

Sentencing, Grief, and Reflections

Holly is sentenced to two life sentences. The hosts reflect on the audacity of the perpetrators and the justice served, acknowledging the lasting grief for Alyssa's family.

Keywords

Q&A

• What was the initial perception of Alyssa Burkett's attack?

  Initially, the attack on Alyssa Burkett appeared to be a random act of violence. However, investigators soon discovered it was a meticulously planned and executed act, with someone having tracked and targeted her for months.

• How did Holly Elkins and Andrew Beard attempt to destabilize Alyssa's life before the murder?

  Holly and Andrew allegedly engaged in a campaign of harassment, including placing a GPS tracker on Alyssa's car, making false police reports, and even planting drugs and a gun in her vehicle to have her arrested.

• What role did technology play in the investigation of Alyssa Burkett's murder?

  Technology was crucial. GPS tracking devices on Alyssa's and her boyfriend's vehicles confirmed she was being watched. Andrew's burner phone and internet searches for removing gunpowder residue also provided key evidence.

• What was the significance of the federal charges in this case?

  Federal charges, particularly cyberstalking and using a dangerous weapon resulting in death, allowed prosecutors to frame the murder as the culmination of a long, escalating campaign. This broader scope led to more severe penalties.

• How did Andrew Beard's plea agreement impact the case against Holly Elkins?

  Andrew's guilty plea and subsequent cooperation with investigators provided crucial details about Holly's direct involvement in planning the attack, including instructions for a disguise and her desire for a future without Alyssa.

• What was the ultimate outcome for Andrew Beard and Holly Elkins?

  Andrew Beard pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 43 years in prison. Holly Elkins was found guilty of all charges and received two life sentences.

Show Notes