Michael Burham case: Man who led authorities on manhunt now faces murder charges

Warren, Pa. ( WJET / WFXP )– Michael Burham, the man who made national headlines after escaping from the Warren County Prison, now faces murder charges.

It’s been more than a year since Kala Hodgkin was shot to death in her home. Much to her family’s relief, her ex-boyfriend has now been charged with her murder.

Michael Burham, the man known for escaping Warren County Prison and leading authorities on a nine-day manhunt, has been charged with the murder he was initially suspected of.

The 35-year-old has been indicted and arraigned on first and second-degree murder charges in connection with the shooting of his ex-girlfriend Kala Hodgkin in May of 2023.

It’s been more than a year since Kala Hodgkin’s dead body was found in this Jamestown home. When hearing that murder charges had been issued, her aunt said simply “Finally”.

“I’m pleased finally, finally, he’s being charged for her murder and everything,” said Theresa Shaw, Kala’s aunt.

Burham also faces an arson charge in connection with torching Kala’s friend’s car. In January, Burham was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in Pennsylvania state prison for the kidnapping of an elderly couple and subsequent escape.

But Kala’s family is relieved that if convicted of these New York charges, Burham will now be behind bars for life.

“Can’t never bring her back. It’s just great to know that he’s never going to be out again,” Shaw said.

Shaw said just weeks before her murder, Burham attacked Kala in her home, and she pressed charges.

“That’s when he raped her and held her against her will. I guess he said, that’s what’s being said, if you say anything I’ll kill you,” Shaw recalled.

This recent indictment is still just a small consolation for those who loved Kala, a mother of three, the most.

“Her mom Ann, my sister, she’s really really having a hard time. I mean nobody wants to bury their daughter,” Shaw went on to say.

Burham is now in Chautauqua County Jail. His trial is expected to begin in a few weeks.

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