Alyssa Bradburn has been sentenced to 28 years in prison for the premeditated murder of her father, Timothy Bradburn, who she shot four times at their home in Spokane, Washington, in June 2024. The shocking case has raised questions not only about her motivations but about her mental health and the circumstances leading up to the tragic event.
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On June 25, 2024, Alyssa, then 31 years old, waited for her 68-year-old father to return from a trip to Hawaii. As Timothy entered their home just after midnight, Alyssa shot him four times, hitting him twice in the chest and once in the head. Following the shooting, she promptly called 911 and confessed to the crime, initially claiming it was an act of self-defence against her father’s alleged abuse.
During the subsequent trial in February 2026, evidence surfaced that suggested Alyssa had been planning the murder for weeks. Witness testimony revealed that she had documented her intentions in a journal, which she intentionally left at the crime scene for authorities to discover. Furthermore, it came to light that she had been practising her shooting skills at a local range in the weeks leading up to the incident.
Alyssa’s defence attorney described her as suffering from a mental illness that influenced her perception of reality. Initially, Alyssa proclaimed that her father had been abusive towards both her and her pets, recounting a narrative of violence that included claims of childhood trauma. However, her brother, Trace Bradburn, argued vehemently in court that Timothy had never physically nor sexually abused anyone, including Alyssa. He described their family dynamic as loving and supportive, highlighting that their parents had always endeavoured to provide for Alyssa’s well-being.
The events that transpired shortly before Timothy’s death were chilling. After shooting her father, Alyssa called 911 and provided detailed information about the crime, including the location of the weapon. She was described by officers as cooperative during her arrest, insisting that she wanted to make the process as uncomplicated as possible. Evidence revealed that she had even secured her dogs in a different room prior to the shooting to avoid them being harmed or interfering with what she termed her “plan.”
Alyssa’s claims of self-defence gradually weakened as the trial progressed, culminating in her admission of guilt. By the time the jury reached a verdict on March 4, Alyssa acknowledged her actions, declaring, “I killed Tim Bradburn, and I am guilty. I didn’t need to defend myself.” This statement, marked by her apparent acceptance of culpability, raised even further questions about her mental state at the time of the shooting.
The trial concluded with the jury finding Alyssa guilty of first-degree murder, which signified their agreement that the act was premeditated rather than impulsive. Prosecutors illustrated the extent of her planning, emphasising that her actions were calculated and deliberate. In a dramatic twist, she expressed relief and acceptance of her sentence, stating her wish to own her actions and face the consequences squarely.
On April 2, 2026, Alyssa was sentenced to 28 years in prison. In videos from the courtroom during her sentencing, she smiled while the judge recounted the details of her crime. Her reaction—contrasting starkly with the gravity of the situation—elicited further discomfort and astonishment, as observers grappled with the complexities of her mental condition.
As she embarks on this lengthy prison term, the Bradburn family’s narrative, once marked by togetherness, has been irrevocably altered. Trace spoke emotionally at the trial about the devastation of losing his father, a man he described as “everything” to him. The ongoing discussions about Alyssa’s mental health and the horrific circumstances surrounding Timothy’s death will likely continue to haunt both her and those who knew their family.
This tragic story serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of violence within familial relationships, highlighting the profound implications of mental health issues. As the community in Spokane comes to terms with this event, the Bradburn case will undoubtedly remain in public consciousness, resonating as a cautionary tale about the importance of seeking help and understanding in times of distress.