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Man Sentenced to Life for Killing Girlfriend in Tempe
Adrian Aguilar received life in prison plus 26 additional years for the murder of his 19-year-old girlfriend Amria Crofton.
Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:37pm
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Adrian Aguilar has been sentenced to life in prison and an additional 26 years for the murder of his 19-year-old girlfriend, Amria Crofton. In June 2023, Aguilar was driving around Tempe with Crofton when he allegedly saw a text message on her phone from another man. After Crofton denied having a relationship with someone else, Aguilar shot her repeatedly over the next 45 minutes as he drove around the city.
Why it matters
This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the need for greater awareness and resources to support victims of intimate partner abuse. It also raises questions about the role of jealousy and possessiveness in fueling violence within relationships.
The details
According to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, Aguilar demanded that Crofton tell him if she was cheating and threatened to shoot her if she didn't tell the truth. After Crofton repeatedly denied having a relationship with someone else, Aguilar shot her. Over the next 45 minutes, Aguilar drove around Tempe repeatedly shooting Crofton. Police responded to a call near Broadway Road and I-10 after a witness saw Aguilar outside his car firing multiple shots at Crofton before walking away. Crofton had 11 gunshot wounds to the head, neck and torso, as well as injuries to her face, head and hands.
- In June 2023, the incident occurred.
- In February 2026, a jury found Aguilar guilty of first-degree murder, kidnapping and two counts of aggravated assault.
The players
Adrian Aguilar
The man who was sentenced to life in prison and an additional 26 years for the murder of his 19-year-old girlfriend, Amria Crofton.
Amria Crofton
The 19-year-old girlfriend of Adrian Aguilar who was fatally shot by him in Tempe in 2023.
Maricopa County Attorney's Office (MCAO)
The office that prosecuted Adrian Aguilar and provided details about the case.
What they’re saying
“'This young woman placed her trust in the defendant, and he repaid that trust with brutal violence. His actions were callous, calculated, and rooted in jealousy. Thanks to the dedicated work of prosecutors Shaylee Beasley and Katie Staab, he has been held accountable and will spend his life in prison.'”
— County Attorney Mitchell
The takeaway
This tragic case underscores the urgent need for greater awareness, education, and support services to address the root causes of domestic violence and prevent such senseless acts of violence from occurring in the future.
