5 key details about Michael Bryan's murder

In a case that shocked Lexington, South Carolina, 55-year-old Kimberly Groh was sentenced to 30 years in prison for killing her husband, Michael Bryan. The crime involved premeditation, as evidenced by internet searches and other actions leading up to the fatal shooting. This case, marked by planning and deception, offers a harrowing glimpse into a calculated crime.

The case was featured in Snapped season 34 episode 23, titled Kimberly Fletcher Groh, which aired on December 22, 2024. This episode explores the tragic story of an avid outdoorsman whose death was Initially ruled a suicide. However, the investigation revealed a tangled web of mental health issues and a complicated marriage.

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Five details about Michael Bryan's murder

1) Extensive research into poisoning

There was research history about poisoning (Image via Pexels)

Before Michael Bryan’s death on November 30, 2016, Kimberly Groh conducted numerous internet searches regarding ways to kill her husband. These searches included phrases like “Ways to poison spouse without detection,” “Top Ten Most Deadly Poisons Known to Mankind,” “Buy Zyklon B,” and “How much arsenic will kill a human?”

Her search history revealed inquiries about fatal dosages of arsenic and methods for loading and using firearms. This digital trail showed deliberate planning, which prosecutors used as key evidence of her intent.

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2) The fatal shooting and weapon details

Michael Bryan, a plumber and outdoorsman, died from a single gunshot wound to the heart, inflicted by a .223 Winchester rifle. Investigators found Groh’s DNA on the trigger of the gun, while no DNA from her husband was present.

During the trial, crime scene analysis indicated that Groh stood at the foot of the bed when she fired the shot, contradicting her claims that her husband was lying on his side when he was shot. Expert testimony confirmed Michael Bryan was upright when he was shot in the chest.

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3) Attempts to cash in life insurance

Attempts to cash in life insurance were made (Image via Pexels)

Shortly after Michael Bryan’s death, Groh attempted to claim a $500,000 life insurance policy. Prosecutors highlighted this as a possible motive for the murder. Groh’s defense argued that she did not collect any money and was simply unsure about the process following the death.

However, this action, combined with the evidence of premeditation, painted a grim picture of her intent to benefit financially from the crime.

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4) Inconsistent statements to police

Groh’s statements to law enforcement raised suspicions due to inconsistencies. She provided conflicting accounts of the events surrounding the shooting, including details about her husband’s position when it occurred.

Her inability to give a coherent explanation further deepened investigators’ concerns. The inconsistencies and physical evidence, including blood spatter analysis, played a significant role in building the case against her.

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5) Plea deal and sentencing

Representative image of court trial (Image via Pexels)

Initially charged with murder, Kimberly Groh eventually pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. This charge carries a maximum sentence of 30 years, which she received. Prosecutors opted for a plea deal to spare the family the pain of a full trial.

During sentencing, Eleventh Circuit Solicitor Rick Hubbard described the crime as “premeditated and callous.” Groh’s defense lawyer emphasized her good character, highlighting her community work and Christian faith. Despite this, the weight of the evidence led to her long prison term.

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For more details on the case, watch Snapped on Oxygen.