A heartbreaking domestic violence case in Nebraska has reached its final chapter, as a man who murdered his former fiancée just one day after being released from jail has been sentenced to spend the rest of his life behind bars.
The case has deeply affected the Seward community and highlighted the dangers victims can continue to face even after seeking legal protection. With the sentencing now complete, Jamie Hagen’s family says justice has finally been served.
Nebraska Man Sentenced for Killing Ex-Fiancée
Casey Kindt, 55, has been sentenced to at least 88 years and six months in prison, with the possibility of spending the rest of his life behind bars for the murder of his former fiancée, Jamie Hagen.
The sentencing took place in Nebraska after Kindt pleaded no contest earlier this year to multiple charges connected to Hagen’s death.
Plea Deal Reduced Murder Charge
In February 2026, Kindt entered a plea agreement involving multiple criminal charges.
As part of the deal:
- One first-degree murder charge was reduced to second-degree murder
- He pleaded no contest to eight felony charges
- He also faced three misdemeanor counts
James Stecker found Kindt guilty on multiple charges, including:
- Murder
- Burglary
- Domestic violence
- Witness tampering
- Terroristic threats
- Violating a protection order
- Child abuse charges
- Firearm-related offenses
Jamie Hagen Was Killed Inside Her Own Home
The deadly incident happened on February 8, 2025, in Seward.
Investigators said Kindt broke into Jamie Hagen’s home on North 2nd Street late at night before shooting her multiple times inside a bedroom.
Emergency responders found Hagen critically injured, and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities said one of Hagen’s daughters was inside the home during the attack.
Thankfully, the child was not physically harmed and was the one who made the initial 911 call.
Suspect Attempted Suicide After Shooting
After killing Hagen, investigators say Kindt attempted to take his own life.
He reportedly suffered a serious self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, but survived after the bullet fragmented on impact.
Part of the projectile reportedly remained lodged in his brain.
After leaving the home, he was quickly located and arrested by the Nebraska State Patrol, who had responded to reports of a disturbance.
Victim Had a Protection Order
At the time of the murder, Jamie Hagen already had a legal protection order against Kindt.
She had requested the order after an earlier domestic violence incident in December 2024.
According to investigators, during that earlier attack Kindt:
- Pushed Hagen into walls, doors, and shelving
- Threatened to kill her
- Threatened one of her daughters
Police arrested him after that incident.
Released From Jail Just One Day Before Murder
Court records show Kindt posted a $75,000 bond on February 7, 2025.
Less than 24 hours later, Jamie Hagen was dead.
Before the killing, investigators say Kindt had also violated court orders by contacting Hagen through another person.
He allegedly sent messages discussing personal accusations and implied that legal problems could “go away” if she cooperated.
Those messages led to another arrest before he was released again.
Family Says Justice Has Been Served
After sentencing, Hagen’s family expressed relief that Kindt would never be free again.
Jamie’s stepmother said the sentence ensures he will “never see freedom again.”
The case brought emotional testimony and deep pain for Hagen’s loved ones, especially her children and the local community.
Jamie Hagen Remembered by Her Community
Jamie Hagen was remembered as a caring mother and a dedicated professional.
She worked as a developmental support specialist and was known for her love of:
- Family and friends
- Art and tattoos
- Swimming and beach trips
- Animals, including reptiles
Friends and family said she treated the Seward community like family and always put her daughters first.
A Case That Highlights Domestic Violence Risks
This tragic case has once again raised concerns about domestic violence, bond release policies, and victim protection.
Despite obtaining a protective order and reporting earlier abuse, Jamie Hagen was still targeted by her former partner.
Her case serves as a painful reminder of how quickly domestic violence can turn deadly and why strong protection measures remain critical.
