Adam Raymond Mason, a 34-year-old man from Oklahoma, has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his 5-year-old daughter, whom he set on fire in August 2020. The horrific crime was committed after Mason, who believed his daughter was under the influence of witchcraft, assaulted her before taking her life.
Details of the Tragic Crime
Court records revealed that Mason punched his daughter multiple times in the face before carrying out the devastating act. He then took her to a creek, placed a tire over her, and set her on fire. This unthinkable act left the young girl dead, and her body was found after police were called to check on her well-being.
The girl’s mother had grown concerned when Mason refused to let her speak with her daughter after an overnight stay. She immediately contacted the police, prompting them to respond to the scene. Upon arriving, deputies discovered the burned body of the child, believing it to be the 5-year-old girl.
Authorities’ Reactions
U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson expressed the depth of the crime, stating, “What Mason did to this 5-year-old little girl was inhumane. There will be no first dances for her. She will not have the opportunity to attend college or become a mother herself.”
He went on to say that the life imprisonment sentence underscored the seriousness of the crime and was crucial for public safety.
FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater also shared his disgust at the crime, saying, “The suffering this innocent child endured at the hands of her own father is completely incomprehensible.
The defendant deserves every second of the sentence imposed, and more.” Goodwater also commended the work of the investigators and prosecutors in bringing Mason to justice.
Mason’s Arrest and Motive
After the discovery of his daughter’s body, police searched the area and found Mason hiding in the woods. He was taken into custody, where he told authorities that he believed his daughter was being controlled by witchcraft.
Mason’s defense team, according to reports, mentioned that he was addicted to methamphetamine at the time of the murder. The attorney claimed that Mason acted during a methamphetamine hallucination but took responsibility for his actions, expressing remorse for the crime.
The Impact and the Sentencing
The tragic loss of this young life has left an indelible mark on the community. The court’s decision to sentence Mason to life in prison ensures that he will never be able to harm anyone again.
The heartbreaking reality of this crime serves as a chilling reminder of the devastating effects of substance abuse and the importance of mental health care.