Birnbaums Face Murder Trial | Jefferson City News

In a jaw-dropping case from Benton County, Kayley and Michael Birnbaum face first-degree murder charges after the gruesome death of 28-year-old Cody Garrett—shot multiple times and impaled with a novelty sword at a mountain bike park. Michael confessed to police in May 2025, while Kayley admitted they’d scouted ambush spots and researched cleaning agents to cover their tracks. A chilling twist? One of them was the sole beneficiary of a $50K life insurance policy taken out on Garrett just months before his death—and they’re also set to inherit his car and belongings. Trials loom: Kayley’s April 12, 2027; Michael’s May 27, 2027. Plus, 71-year-old Jack Wagner, also charged, goes to trial January 11, 2027, in Henry County—all held on a $2M bond. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5194763c60fcbc06