A woman in Arkansas has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to first-degree domestic battery, following an incident in which she shot her ex-boyfriend multiple times, leaving him with severe injuries. Rebecca Jane Mryglod, aged 38, was convicted for an event that took place on November 8, 2024, in Drasco, where she shot the victim more than 17 times. Despite his injuries, he managed to survive but required extensive surgery, including an operation on his colon due to an infection caused by one of the bullets.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Rebecca-Mryglod-081926-f89996dc814942d6a01700130547bc46.jpg)
According to court documents, Mryglod called 911 shortly after the shooting, during which she was reportedly sobbing and requested medical assistance for the injured man. She admitted to the shooting, stating she would prefer him to be dead than continue helping him with what she referred to as his “spiritual demons.” This disturbing comment was included in an affidavit filed in connection with the case.
When emergency responders arrived at the scene, they found the victim leaning against a kitchen counter, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Blood was visible at various locations around the home, indicating the severity of the incident. Mryglod was found outside the property, exhibiting signs of distress and with blood on her hands. Upon being questioned by deputies, she acknowledged her actions and expressed concern regarding the victim’s survival.
As the investigation unfolded, Mryglod explained to authorities that although she and the victim had previously ended their relationship, she had moved back in to assist him in facing his alleged spiritual struggles. In her statement, she revealed that she had acquired the firearm—a black KelTec .22-caliber handgun—just three days before the shooting and had practised using it.
Mryglod stated she had woken around 5 a.m. on the day of the incident, retrieved the gun and ammunition from her car, and completed her morning routine, which included ensuring her daughter got on the school bus. Later, when she returned to the house, she encountered the victim on the couch. After asking about his work plans, she suddenly turned and fired the gun as he stood up.
The affidavit, written by Detective Justin Oliver, included Mryglod’s chilling assertion that she would rather see her ex-boyfriend dead and herself incarcerated than continue their relationship. This revelation sheds light on the complex dynamics leading up to the violent confrontation.
Subsequent to the shooting, the victim recounted to investigators that Mryglod had shot him while he was rising from the couch and had then approached him to fire again. He stated that he had accompanied her during the purchase of the weapon and had also participated in training sessions with her beforehand. His testimony provided critical details regarding the incident, contributing to the prosecution’s case against her.
Initially, Mryglod faced severe charges, including attempted first-degree murder, along with first-degree domestic battery and simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms. Ultimately, she accepted a plea deal, resulting in her conviction for domestic battery.
The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the tragic reality of domestic violence and its often life-altering consequences for those involved. Authorities stress the importance of seeking help in situations of domestic abuse. Resources are available for individuals encountering similar circumstances, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which operates 24/7 and offers confidential support.
With Mryglod now serving her sentence, the legal proceedings have left a profound impact on the life of the victim and his family. As he continues to recover from his injuries, the wider implications of this case serve as a stark reminder of the complexities and dangers surrounding domestic relationships.