Logan Burnett receives life sentence for the premeditated murder of Courtney Mitchell in Ipswich. He must serve at least 25 years.
The judge gave Burnett a life sentence, stating he must serve at least 25 years before being considered for release. The judge described Burnett hunting Courtney, calling it a “personal execution,” as though she were his prey.
Burnett acted out of jealousy and obsession, wanting Courtney exclusively. Reportedly, he fantasized about killing someone and watched real-life deaths in an online group.
The judge highlighted that in 2024, 84 women were killed by partners. Burnett bought two knives for the attack. When Courtney tried to run, he pinned her against a fence and stabbed her four times.
The knife blade bent from the force of the assault. Two wounds pierced her lung and aorta, causing massive blood loss. The court was told she likely died within minutes. The attack was triggered by jealousy after he discovered Courtney had a new boyfriend.
Burnett, from Ipswich, admitted to the murder and possessing the knives. Courtney was walking with friends near a skate park when a friend saw Burnett approaching them that evening. They ran, but Burnett caught Courtney, wearing a hooded top at the time.
Witnesses called the attack “cold and deliberate”. One witness said Burnett cornered Courtney and stabbed her “all over” with a large knife. Courtney collapsed, and a passer-by heard her cries, “I’ve been stabbed. Am I going to die?”
People tried to save her at the scene, but she died soon after arriving at the hospital. The court was informed jealousy motivated Burnett after he learned about Courtney’s new boyfriend. A friend said their relationship involved drug use, and Courtney avoided him when sober.
Burnett struggled with drugs and alcohol and had many prior convictions. He had previously been violent with Courtney, and they separated one month before the murder when she moved away to escape him.
Despite the separation, they stayed in touch and Courtney told her family she would not reconcile. Prosecutors believe Burnett planned her murder after she started a new relationship.
Police arrested Burnett the day after the murder. He told a pal he was glad and had no regrets. Burnett’s lawyer acknowledged premeditation and domestic violence, stating Burnett was genuinely remorseful and felt guilt about Courtney’s death.
Burnett’s lawyer said he had mental health issues and used illegal and prescribed drugs.