A Hudson Valley man is heading to prison for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, who was trying to end their relationship, moments before the killing.

On Wednesday in Ulster County Court, 42-year-old Karon Bowden of Saugerties was sentenced to 24 years to life in prison.  He pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in March.

In May of 2016, Bowden killed Amy Lousie Burger, 25, by shooting her in the face from close range in her Saugerties home.

According to the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office, Burger tried to break up with Bowden moments before the murder. Bowden was unemployed at the time of the killing, police say. She and Burger lived together for over three years

“It is important for the public to understand how dangerous it can be for victims to break free from the cycle of domestic violence,” Ulster County District Attorney Holley Carnright said. “It is often inconceivable to loved ones and to the community how volatile relationships plagued by the power and control inherent in domestic violence can be.  As a community we need to be vigilant in looking for situations and be willing to step in when necessary and appropriate.”

On the day of the murder, Saugerties police received a 911 call that was disconnected. Police arrived to Burger’s home on Randall Court just as Bowden fatally shot her.

An Order of Protection was issued in favor of the Burger’s immediate family until May 24, 2072, should Bowden ever be released.

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