Three days after 24-year-old Alyssa Burkett was shot and then stabbed to death outside her office in Carrollton, Texas, Andrew Beard – with whom Burkett shared a 1-year-old daughter – was charged with her murder. The following day, Beard’s fiancée Holly Elkins voluntarily sat down with two detectives at the Carrollton Police Department. Elkins told the detectives that she was convinced they had the wrong man and that Beard was home with her at the time of the murder.
The murder of Alyssa Burkett came as a shock to many, especially considering the bitter custody battle she had been involved in with Beard over their daughter, Willow. The situation escalated when Beard started demanding primary custody of Willow again, causing Burkett to feel like she was being watched and followed. This uneasy feeling eventually culminated in Burkett’s tragic murder in broad daylight.
Investigators soon uncovered a twisted murder plot orchestrated by Elkins, who had a deep-seated hatred for Burkett. Text messages between Elkins and Beard revealed her true feelings, with Elkins expressing her disdain for Burkett and even instructing Beard on how to carry out the murder. This revelation painted a much darker picture of Elkins’ involvement in the crime.
Andrew Beard was ultimately sentenced to 43 years in federal prison, while Elkins faced charges of conspiracy to stalk and stalking resulting in death. Despite pleading not guilty, Elkins was found guilty on all counts and sentenced to two life terms, a much harsher punishment compared to Beard’s sentence.
The case of Alyssa Burkett’s murder serves as a chilling reminder of how jealousy, hatred, and manipulation can lead to unimaginable acts of violence. It also highlights the importance of thorough investigation and the pursuit of justice, even when the full extent of one’s involvement may not be immediately clear.
The tragic story of Alyssa Burkett’s murder is a stark reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the devastating consequences that can arise from unresolved conflicts. It also underscores the importance of seeking help and support in times of distress, as well as the critical role that law enforcement plays in ensuring that justice is served. As the community continues to grapple with this senseless act of violence, it is essential to remember Alyssa Burkett and the legacy she leaves behind. May her story serve as a reminder of the need for compassion, understanding, and above all, the value of human life.
