Charles EstherIn a chilling case that shook Albuquerque, New Mexico, a mother and her son have been convicted in the tragic shooting death of a homeless woman, Monique Garcia.
The incident, which occurred on April 3, 2023, unfolded outside an apartment complex, leading to a chain of events that would forever change the lives of everyone involved.
The Events Leading to the Shooting
The confrontation began when 45-year-old Kristina Withrow noticed Garcia, a homeless woman, near her apartment complex.
According to reports, Withrow approached Garcia, demanding she leave the walkway.
The situation escalated quickly, leading to an argument between the two women.
In a moment of heightened tension, Withrow retrieved a handgun from her vehicle.
She then handed the firearm to her 18-year-old son, Kristian Crespin, directing him to shoot Garcia.
Crespin fired three shots, one of which struck Garcia, fatally wounding her.
Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a male, later identified as Crespin, shoot Garcia before fleeing the scene.
Despite initially claiming responsibility for the shooting, Withrow later admitted that it was her son who had fired the fatal shots.
Initial Misleading Statements and Investigation
After the incident, Withrow initially took the blame for the shooting, claiming she had fired the gun.
However, law enforcement investigators quickly uncovered conflicting evidence.
Multiple witnesses testified that the shooter was a male, not Withrow, and they had seen Crespin flee the scene.
Faced with this new evidence, Withrow changed her statement, acknowledging that her son had indeed fired the shots.
This revelation led to an intensification of the investigation, culminating in both mother and son being charged for their roles in the incident.
Court Proceedings and Convictions
The case went to court, where Kristian Crespin was found guilty of second-degree murder in September 2023.
He was sentenced to 18 years in prison.
Crespin’s conviction reflected the severity of his actions, which resulted in the loss of an innocent life.
Kristina Withrow, on the other hand, faced a jury trial.
On April 24, 2025, she was convicted of second-degree murder with a firearm enhancement, aggravated assault, and tampering with evidence.
The jury deliberated for over three hours before delivering their verdict.
While Withrow faced the possibility of a first-degree murder conviction, the jury chose the lesser charge of second-degree murder.
The firearm enhancements attached to her conviction reflect the use of the weapon in the commission of the crime.
The sentencing for Withrow is still pending, but the jury’s decision marks a significant moment in the case, holding her accountable for the tragic events that led to Garcia’s death.
The Legal Consequences of the Incident
Both Crespin and Withrow now face the legal repercussions of their actions. Crespin’s 18-year sentence serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of gun violence, particularly when it involves an individual who was coerced into taking such a drastic step.
Withrow’s conviction demonstrates the legal responsibility that comes with wielding a firearm and instructing others to commit violent acts.
The Broader Impact on the Community
This case has sparked widespread conversation about the treatment of homeless individuals in society.
The tragic death of Monique Garcia has drawn attention to the dangers homeless people often face, particularly in urban areas where they are vulnerable to violence and exploitation.
Additionally, the incident has reignited debates about gun ownership and responsibility.
Withrow’s decision to involve her son in the shooting highlights the potential for misuse of firearms and the tragic consequences that can result from irresponsible actions.
Conclusion: A Reminder of the Fragility of Life
The conviction of Kristina Withrow and Kristian Crespin serves as a grim reminder of how a single moment of violence can change lives forever.
For Monique Garcia, a woman living on the streets, her life was cut short in a senseless act.
For Withrow and Crespin, the legal consequences of their actions will follow them for years to come.
This case also emphasizes the importance of responsible firearm ownership, as well as the need for compassion and understanding when it comes to the treatment of vulnerable members of society.
As the legal process continues, the hope remains that lessons can be learned from this tragedy, and that such senseless violence can be prevented in the future.
