Father Receives 126-Year Sentence for Heinous Double Murder and Arson
In a shocking case of domestic violence, a father has been sentenced to 126 years in prison for the brutal murders of his ex-wife and adult son, followed by an attempt to cover up the crimes by setting their home on fire. Michael Kegg Jr., aged 53, was handed this substantial prison term on Friday, February 13, after a jury found him guilty on two counts of murder. The sentences were split, with 64 years for the killing of his son, Michael Kegg III, 34, and 62 years for the murder of his ex-wife, Malisa Kegg, 51.
Gruesome Discovery on New Year's Day
Firefighters responding to a blaze at a residence located approximately 125 miles south of Indianapolis on January 1, 2025, made a horrifying discovery. Inside the charred remains of the home, they found the bodies of both victims. Initially, it might have seemed like a tragic accident, but investigators quickly determined that the fire was not the cause of death. Post-mortem examinations revealed that both Malisa Kegg and Michael Kegg III had suffered fatal gunshot wounds to the chest prior to the fire being set.
Evidence at the scene pointed to a deliberate attempt to conceal the murders. Investigators established that a flammable liquid had been poured over the bodies, and a can of accelerant was found next to the son's body in the kitchen. A shotgun and three shells were also discovered, further corroborating the violent nature of the crimes. Additionally, both victims showed signs of other injuries, including cuts to the scalp, indicating a violent altercation had taken place before their deaths.
Motivation and Premeditation
The murders occurred just two weeks after Michael Kegg Jr. and Malisa attended a divorce hearing, highlighting ongoing familial and financial tensions. Court documents cited by local media revealed that the family was experiencing significant financial difficulties. In a telling move, just one day before the murders, Kegg Jr. had contacted the city of Francisco to request the discontinuation of utility services at Malisa's address, expressing frustration over paying her bills. Witnesses described him as irate in the lead-up to the incident.
In an attempt to evade detection, Kegg Jr. allegedly left his mobile phone at home to hide his location. His ex-wife, Amanda Kegg, is accused of assisting in the crimes by driving him to the property. Initially, she told police that she had argued with Kegg on December 30 and had not seen him on December 31. However, she later changed her story, admitting that Kegg instructed her to leave her phone at home and drive him to Francisco so he could "take care of something." She claimed she dropped him off at a park and waited for about two hours before leaving.
Further investigation revealed that Amanda went to Kegg's bank and withdrew $800, the maximum daily amount allowed. Kegg Jr. told investigators that he went from the park to the victims' home to work on a vehicle, spoke with his ex-wife and son who told him to leave, and then departed, claiming both were still alive. He stated that as he walked away through a field behind the house, he heard and saw emergency lights and sirens.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Case
Amanda Kegg has entered not guilty pleas to charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Her trial is currently scheduled for November, adding another layer to this complex and tragic case. The sentencing of Michael Kegg Jr. to 126 years ensures he will spend the rest of his life behind bars, serving as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and premeditated crime.
This case underscores the importance of thorough police work in uncovering the truth behind such heinous acts, as investigators pieced together evidence from gunshot wounds, arson, and witness statements to bring the perpetrator to justice.
