Hailey
In a shocking and tragic case, an Emporia man has admitted to killing two women in Colorado, bringing a painful chapter to a close for the victims’ families and the community.
The investigation, which began nearly two years ago, involved extensive police work across state lines and advanced technology to track the suspect.
Case Overview
Philip Lieurance, from Emporia, pleaded guilty on Wednesday, August 7, to two counts of second-degree murder. This guilty plea was part of a plea deal that ensures he will serve a 45-year prison sentence. Lieurance admitted to killing Linda Estrada and Amy Ford in rural Colorado.
The women’s bodies were discovered after an extensive search, shocking residents in both Kansas and Colorado. This case has been marked by grief, anger, and a strong demand for justice from the victims’ families and the public.
Timeline of Events
- Early August 2023 – Linda Estrada is reported missing by a family member.
- Ten days later – The bodies of Estrada and Amy Ford are discovered in a remote area of rural Colorado.
- Investigation begins – Law enforcement agencies from both Kansas and Colorado coordinate efforts to track down the suspect.
- August 7, 2025 – Lieurance pleads guilty and is sentenced to 45 years in prison as part of a plea agreement.
How Investigators Solved the Case
Authorities credit the resolution of this case to advanced investigative technology and cross-state cooperation.
- Cell phone tracking was used to trace the victims’ movements.
- Security camera footage helped map out where the women traveled in Colorado.
- The evidence led police to focus their search in eastern Colorado and western Kansas, where they eventually connected the crimes to Lieurance.
This methodical approach allowed investigators to build a strong case, which likely influenced Lieurance’s decision to accept the plea deal rather than face trial.
Plea Deal and Sentencing
The plea agreement meant that Lieurance would avoid the possibility of a longer sentence or the death penalty in exchange for admitting guilt. Prosecutors explained that the 45-year sentence guarantees that he will remain in prison for most of his life.
Some family members of the victims expressed mixed emotions—relief that there is closure, but sadness and frustration that the punishment cannot bring back their loved ones.
Community Reaction
The people of Emporia and the victims’ relatives have held vigils and memorial services to honor Linda Estrada and Amy Ford. Social media has been filled with tributes describing them as kind, caring, and loved by many.
Community members have also expressed gratitude toward the police for their determination and persistence in solving the case.
Impact on the Families
For the families of the victims, the guilty plea is only one step toward healing. The loss of Linda Estrada and Amy Ford has left a deep void.
Loved ones have spoken about the emotional toll, sleepless nights, and constant memories of the women. They hope the case serves as a warning about violence and the importance of safety.
Case Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Philip Lieurance |
| Victims | Linda Estrada, Amy Ford |
| Date of Guilty Plea | August 7, 2025 |
| Charges | Two counts of second-degree murder |
| Sentence | 45 years in prison |
| Location of Crime | Rural Colorado |
| Key Evidence | Cell phone tracking, security footage |
Why This Case Stands Out
This case demonstrates how modern technology and multi-state law enforcement cooperation can solve even the most challenging crimes. Without cell phone data and surveillance footage, the connection between the suspect and the victims might never have been proven.
The murders of Linda Estrada and Amy Ford have deeply affected the Emporia community and left scars that time cannot erase. While the 45-year prison sentence for Philip Lieurance brings legal closure, the grief of losing two lives in such a violent way will remain with their families forever.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of justice, the power of technology in solving crimes, and the strength of communities that come together in times of tragedy.