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Garrison Today
By the People, for the People
Man sentenced for murdering 20-year-old girlfriend with 'special bullet'
Damien Hebbeler found guilty of intentional murder, faces 50-year sentence
Mar. 25, 2026 at 6:20pm
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A 23-year-old Kentucky man has been found guilty of intentionally shooting and killing his 20-year-old girlfriend, Kylie Marie Weitz Willis, with a 'special bullet' he had been carrying. The jury recommended a 50-year sentence for Damien Hebbeler, who will be formally sentenced on June 5.
Why it matters
This case highlights the tragic impact of domestic violence crimes and the need for accountability. Kentucky takes these crimes seriously, with the attorney general's office playing a key role in securing the guilty verdict.
The details
On August 9, 2023, Hebbeler intentionally shot and killed Willis at close range. At trial, Hebbeler admitted to carrying a 'special bullet' with him, which was the same round used to shoot the victim in the face and kill her. Less than a year before the shooting, the defendant had also made statements that he wanted to kill Willis.
- On August 9, 2023, Hebbeler intentionally shot and killed Willis.
- Hebbeler will be formally sentenced on June 5.
The players
Damien Hebbeler
A 23-year-old man who was found guilty of intentionally murdering his 20-year-old girlfriend, Kylie Marie Weitz Willis.
Kylie Marie Weitz Willis
A 20-year-old woman who was murdered by her boyfriend, Damien Hebbeler.
Russell Coleman
The Kentucky Attorney General whose office secured the guilty verdict against Hebbeler.
What they’re saying
“Today's jury verdict delivers hard-won justice and affirms that Kylie Marie Weitz Willis' life mattered. In Kentucky, we take domestic violence crimes seriously, and we will continue to hold offenders accountable.”
— Russell Coleman, Kentucky Attorney General
What’s next
Hebbeler will be formally sentenced on June 5.
The takeaway
This tragic case underscores the urgent need to address domestic violence and hold perpetrators fully accountable for their actions. It serves as a somber reminder of the devastating impact these crimes can have on individuals, families, and communities.
