Kristen Michele Goldsberry, aged 39, tragically lost her life on March 28, 2017, in Caliente, California. The incident occurred following an argument between Goldsberry and Cori Cotton, 33, on a property near Back Canyon Road and Caliente Creek Road. During the altercation, Cotton pulled out a gun and shot Goldsberry at least once. Cotton's boyfriend, Bret Stroud, 56, was present along with another male who was Goldsberry's boyfriend. After shooting Goldsberry, Cotton also fired shots at Goldsberry's boyfriend, who managed to escape unharmed.
Following the incident, Cotton and Stroud were arrested at their residence after detectives served a search warrant. Multiple firearms were found on the property, but Goldsberry's body was not immediately located. A thorough search of the rural property led to the discovery of a shallow grave, where Goldsberry's body was found. The Coroner's Office later confirmed her identity.
Cori Cotton was charged with first-degree murder and attempted murder, while Bret Stroud faced multiple weapons violations and charges of being an accessory to murder. Stroud's bail was set at $75,000. The case highlighted the violent outcome of a personal dispute and the subsequent legal actions taken against those involved.
