On August 1, 2018, a call came into Spalding County 911 reporting a shooting on Sunny Brook Drive. Mary Katherine Higdon confessed to accidentally shooting her boyfriend, Steven Freeman, in the neck.
This confession was made before the authorities even arrived at the scene. Higdon claimed she was unaware the gun was chambered and had no intention to harm Freeman.
Incident Details and Initial Reactions
Upon arrival, Lt. Chris Wilson found Freeman unresponsive and Higdon frantic, pleading for help. Higdon’s initial story was that she was handing the gun to Freeman when it accidentally went off.
Investigators were skeptical, noting the chaotic scene in the house, which included food scattered everywhere, suggesting a recent altercation.
Forensic Evidence and Conflicting Stories
Forensic evidence showed grease on the gun’s magazine and slide, indicating the gun had been loaded recently, contradicting Higdon’s claim of not keeping the gun chambered.
Additionally, police found inconsistencies in Higdon’s accounts, ranging from handing the gun to tossing it to Freeman.
Background and Relationship History
Steven Freeman, 23, was remembered as a sweet and devoted son. He had a passion for the outdoors and worked repairing roofs. Mary Katherine Higdon, a preschool teacher aide, shared Freeman’s love for the outdoors and guns.
Their relationship, which began in high school, was described as serious but tumultuous. Friends and family of Freeman portrayed Higdon as controlling and emotionally volatile, with frequent arguments and even instances where she allegedly pointed a gun at Freeman.
Accusations and Defense Claims
Higdon’s defense argued that Freeman had a hidden violent side, and Higdon was acting in self-defense. They presented evidence of threatening text messages Freeman sent to Higdon, indicating a pattern of emotional abuse.
Higdon testified about Freeman’s controlling behavior, instances of physical abuse, and even alleged rape.
Trial and Verdict
During the trial, prosecutors highlighted the changing stories Higdon told the police and the forensic evidence. They argued that Higdon shot Freeman in anger after he ignored her calls and refused to come home for dinner.
Despite this, the defense successfully cast doubt on the prosecution’s case by pointing out investigative mishaps, such as the police moving the gun before photographing it and not fully examining Freeman’s phone.
Jury Deliberation and Outcome
The jury faced challenges with the evidence presented. Two jurors, Victor and Chris, expressed doubts about the investigation’s integrity, particularly the lost confession and the handling of the gun.
These doubts led to the jury’s verdict of not guilty on all charges, including murder and assault. Higdon was released, leaving Freeman’s family devastated and questioning the justice served.
Updates and Reflections
Post-trial, Freeman’s mother, Jennifer Freeman, expressed her belief that the jury failed to consider all evidence. Juror Victor acknowledged believing Higdon was guilty but felt the evidence was insufficient to convict.
The case highlights the complexities of domestic violence, self-defense claims, and the impact of investigative procedures on trial outcomes.
