In the quiet community of Colfax Township, Michigan, a tragedy unfolded that cut short the life of 48-year-old Kathleen Blackburn. Known to her friends and colleagues as Katie, she was a mother of three sons and a valued employee at the Pioneer Group in Big Rapids. Her life was brought to a sudden and violent end on Sunday, January 29, 2017, in a fatal shooting that stunned the local community.
The Mecosta County Sheriff's Office responded to a call at 5:55 p.m.
that evening, arriving at the scene of the shooting in Colfax Township. Their investigation revealed a grim sequence of events. Inside the home she shared with her boyfriend, Gabrial Harkins, a dispute had escalated with tragic consequences. Harkins, who was 33 years old at the time, had become upset with Blackburn for reasons that were not publicly detailed.
The situation came to light after Harkins sent text messages to his relatives, which prompted them to go to the residence. Tragically, they discovered the outcome of the domestic dispute. Authorities determined that Gabrial Harkins shot and killed Kathleen Blackburn before turning the gun on himself, ending his own life in a murder-suicide.
At the time of the incident, Blackburn's youngest son was present in the home but was reportedly unaware of the violent events that were transpiring. He was safely placed in the care of relatives. The community mourned the loss of Blackburn, who was remembered as an enthusiastic member of the local arts scene, particularly for her active involvement in Stage M productions. Autopsies were performed to confirm the causes of death for both Kathleen Blackburn and Gabrial Harkins. As the perpetrator died by his own hand, there were no arrests made or charges filed in connection with Blackburn's death.
