Kent man sentenced for killing mother of his children

Calvin Jackson received over 28 years in prison for the 2024 murder of Anicia Howard.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

A Kent man named Calvin Jackson was sentenced to over 28 years in prison for the 2024 murder of Anicia Howard, the mother of his children. Jackson pleaded guilty to first-degree murder after fatally shooting Howard multiple times, including in the back, and then dragging her body from the vehicle and shooting her in the face.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the need for stronger measures to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable. It also raises questions about the delays in sentencing and the role of the criminal justice system in providing justice for victims and their families.

The details

According to court documents, on February 14, 2024, Jackson hid in the backseat of Howard's vehicle, waited for her to enter, and then shot her multiple times, including in the back. He then drove her vehicle to a parking lot, dragged her body out, and shot her in the face, killing her. Jackson later confessed to the crime, stating that he was angry after learning that Howard had started a new romantic relationship with a woman and had asked him to move out.

  • On February 14, 2024, Jackson fatally shot Anicia Howard.
  • On February 19, 2026, Jackson was sentenced to 340 months (over 28 years) in prison.
  • On April 29, 2024, Jackson pleaded guilty to first-degree murder.
  • On February 21, 2024, Jackson was charged with first-degree murder.
  • On March 2, 2024, a funeral service was held for Anicia Howard in Savannah, Georgia.

The players

Calvin Jackson

A 34-year-old Kent man who pleaded guilty to and was sentenced for the first-degree murder of the mother of his children, Anicia Howard.

Anicia Howard

The 34-year-old mother of two sons, who was fatally shot by her former partner, Calvin Jackson, on Valentine's Day 2024.

King County Superior Court Judge

The judge who sentenced Calvin Jackson to over 28 years in prison for the murder of Anicia Howard.

Auburn Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the murder of Anicia Howard and apprehended Calvin Jackson.

King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office

The office that charged and prosecuted Calvin Jackson for the first-degree murder of Anicia Howard.

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What they’re saying

“Her love for her boys, those two bright beautiful boys she brought into this world, was boundless. Anicia poured her heart into their upbringing, teaching them resilience, compassion and the importance of family. She was their rock, their confidante and their guiding star. As they grow, they will carry her legacy forward, drawing strength from the love she showered upon them.”

— Alyiah Burns (Anicia Howard's funeral program)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Calvin Jackson out on bail pending his appeal.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and the need for stronger measures to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable. It also raises questions about the delays in sentencing and the role of the criminal justice system in providing justice for victims and their families.