Home / Crime and Justice / Obsessed Man Kills Ex-Basketball Star, Gets Life Sentence
Obsessed Man Kills Ex-Basketball Star, Gets Life Sentence
10 Sep
Summary
- Kristopher Sinclair admitted to murdering Brianye Copeland in February 2025.
- Sinclair stalked Copeland and placed a tracking device on her car.
- He was sentenced to 25 to 31 years in prison for second-degree murder.
Kristopher Sinclair has pleaded guilty to the second-degree murder of Brianye Copeland, a 27-year-old former college basketball player. Copeland was found deceased in a Charlotte, North Carolina parking lot on February 7, 2025, after suffering a gunshot wound.
Authorities arrested Sinclair, 40, after investigating a physical altercation where he was seen standing over Copeland and punching her. Investigators found a note from Sinclair expressing his obsession and intent.
Copeland was remembered as a devoted daughter and sister, with a diverse career and a passion for life. Her family has established the BriWay Foundation to address domestic violence, gun violence, and stalking.
Sinclair received a sentence of 25 to 31 years in prison. Copeland's parents expressed that the sentence does not feel sufficient, with her father describing the loss as a "living death sentence."
