In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Broomfield community, Kristil Krug, a 44-year-old chemical engineer and mother of three, was found murdered in her garage on December 14, 2023. Initially believed to be the victim of a stalking ex-boyfriend, investigations revealed a far more chilling truth: her husband, Daniel Krug, had orchestrated the entire scheme.
The Deceptive Stalker
For months leading up to her death, Kristil received threatening and lewd messages from someone she believed was her ex-boyfriend. These messages included details about her daily life, such as the expiration of her car’s license plate stickers and her dental appointments, creating a sense of being watched. Kristil reported these incidents to the police in October 2023, suspecting that her husband might be behind the harassment. However, investigators initially focused on the possibility of an external stalker.
The Fatal Day
On the morning of December 14, 2023, after dropping their children off at school, Kristil returned home. Daniel ambushed her in the garage, striking her in the head multiple times with a blunt object before fatally stabbing her in the heart. To mislead investigators, Daniel used Kristil’s phone to send false messages, including one to her brother and another to a Broomfield detective, suggesting she had been unfaithful—a claim that was proven false. He also disabled their home security system at 8:15 a.m.
The Investigation Unfolds
An exhaustive investigation by the Broomfield Police Department identified Daniel Krug as the suspect. Evidence revealed that Daniel had been impersonating Kristil’s ex-boyfriend for months, using burner phones and fake social media accounts to send the threatening messages. He meticulously crafted a false narrative to manipulate Kristil and create a sense of danger, all while playing the role of a concerned husband.
The Trial and Conviction
In April 2025, Daniel Krug was convicted of first-degree murder, stalking, and criminal impersonation following a multi-week jury trial. The jury found that Daniel had intentionally deceived his wife and the community, leading to her tragic death. Judge Priscilla Loew sentenced him to life in prison without the possibility of parole, plus an additional nine and a half years for the other charges. The case highlighted the dangers of domestic deception and the lengths to which some individuals will go to control and harm their partners.
Impact on the Community
Kristil’s death left a profound impact on her family, friends, and the Broomfield community. Her parents and relatives expressed their devastation over the loss, especially for the couple’s three children, who are now being raised by relatives. The case has sparked discussions about the importance of recognizing and addressing signs of domestic abuse and manipulation.
Conclusion
The murder of Kristil Krug serves as a tragic reminder of the potential dangers hidden behind closed doors. It underscores the importance of vigilance and support for those who may be experiencing domestic abuse or manipulation. If you or someone you know is in a similar situation, it’s crucial to seek help and support from trusted individuals and organizations.