Kristy Van Es, a 37-year-old woman from Visalia, California, was found dead on June 10, 2022, in an orchard near Avenue 288 and Road 68 in Tulare County. Her body was discovered with an apparent shotgun wound to her head. Kristy had been separated from her husband, Thomas Van Es, since January 2022, and had filed for divorce. She had also been a victim of domestic violence, having sought restraining orders against Thomas in September 2021 and January 2022.
Court documents revealed that Kristy had described several fearful moments, including instances where Thomas had been physically abusive and had threatened her and their children.
The Visalia Police Department arrested Thomas Van Es, 41, for Kristy's death. He was charged with her murder after evidence, including video surveillance and DNA, indicated his involvement. The surveillance footage showed Thomas leaving his home on the night of June 9, 2022, and returning late that evening with a shotgun in the bed of his truck. The same type of shotgun used in the murder was found hidden behind the seats of his truck, with a single expended shell still in the firearm. Thomas initially denied leaving his home that night but later admitted to messaging Kristy to meet up in person.
Thomas Van Es was found guilty of murdering his wife and was sentenced to 50 years-to-life in prison. The case highlighted the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help and protection for victims. Kristy's family and friends remembered her as a kind, loving, and supportive woman who always encouraged her loved ones to strive for their best. Her death left her family heartbroken and seeking justice for the future that was taken from her far too soon. Kristy had worked with the Visalia Unified School District, where she was greatly missed by her colleagues and students.
