MACHIAS, Maine — The trial of Kailie Brackett and Donnell Dana, who were both charged with murder in connection with the death of 43-year-old Kimberly Neptune, concluded Wednesday.
Jurors reached a verdict for Brackett, finding her guilty to the murder charge in connection with Neptune's death. However, no verdict was reached for Dana, as the jury was hung, according to the Maine attorney general's office.
Neptune was found dead in her home in Perry, on the Passamaquoddy Pleasant Point Reservation, in April 2022. An autopsy report revealed she had been stabbed 484 times. Her body was left covered by a weighted blanket. Brackett and Dana pleaded not guilty to the murder charges.
Opening statements for the trial began on Friday, Dec. 8, and several witnesses testified, as well a forensic podiatrist, members of the Maine State Police Evidence Response Unit, and Neptune's brother.
Later in the trial, Dr. Liam Funte told the jury the autopsy confirmed Neptune died from blood loss, contributed in large part by a knife wound to the neck that tore her carotid artery. Funte added some of Neptune's wounds were consistent with her fighting back against her attacker(s).
A sentencing date has not yet been set.