MANKATO, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) – Jury selection has begun in the high-profile murder trial of Adam Fravel, accused of killing his partner and mother of his children, Maddi Kingsbury. The trial, originally set in Winona County, has been moved to Mankato due to concerns about impartiality caused by extensive media coverage. Judge Nancy Buytendorp supported the defense’s motion to change the venue, with jury selection expected to last about a week. The trial itself could stretch into late October.
Fravel faces two first-degree murder charges, including one linked to domestic abuse and another for premeditated murder, as well as two counts of second-degree murder. Kingsbury was last seen alive on March 31, 2023, after dropping off her children at daycare. Weeks later, her body was discovered near property tied to Fravel’s family.
While circumstantial evidence points to Fravel, the extent of physical evidence is not yet fully known. The trial will also explore his alleged history of domestic abuse and his fascination with the Gabby Petito case, which mirrors aspects of Kingsbury’s disappearance.
Judge Buytendorp ruled that Kingsbury’s family and friends can testify to past abuse, despite defense objections. As the trial progresses, updates will be provided by local media.