by Platte City, MO – A Missouri man has been charged with second-degree murder after allegedly convincing his then-girlfriend to kill her ex-lover in a violent jealousy dispute that ended in the death of 31-year-old Taylor Hawkins. This case, unfolding in Platte City, a suburb of Kansas City, has revealed a complex web of romance, betrayal, and violence.
The incident occurred in June 2022 but recent developments have escalated charges against 35-year-old Cordero T. Cervantes, who was initially indicted on evidence tampering but now faces murder charges. His girlfriend at the time, 25-year-old McKayla C. Archambeau, pleaded guilty to murder and related charges, shedding light on the harrowing details behind the fatal shooting.
The Fatal Confrontation Behind the Barn
On the day of the shooting, Hawkins and Cervantes engaged in a heated argument at a residence on Oberdiek Lane. A witness recounted that the two men moved behind the barn to continue their dispute, which culminated in a gunshot that claimed Hawkins’ life. The same witness described Cervantes emerging from the scene “with a smirk on his face,” before fleeing.
- Hawkins was shot in the yard of the residence.
- Archambeau fired the fatal shot, according to witness testimony and police reports.
- Authorities found the crime scene chaotic, with evidence of a tense confrontation.
Jealousy and a Deadly Scheme
Investigations unearthed that Hawkins and Archambeau had an intimate encounter about a week before the shooting, fueling Cervantes’ jealousy and suspicions that Archambeau intended to leave him for Hawkins. Their tumultuous on-again, off-again relationship was marked by Archambeau’s repeated returns to previous partners.
“This was a brutal and senseless killing,” stated Platte County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd. “We allege this defendant played a direct role in the death of another man, and then fled the state to avoid justice.”
Law enforcement revealed that Cervantes allegedly pressured Archambeau, telling her “he needs to go” and to “finish him,” leading to the deadly shooting. Archambeau eventually admitted the truth after initially claiming self-defense, explaining that Cervantes demanded the killing because of the past relationship between her and Hawkins.
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Domestic Abuse and Psychological Pressure
Further complicating the case are allegations of abuse within Cervantes and Archambeau’s relationship. Archambeau disclosed to detectives that Cervantes exhibited violent behavior towards her, including nighttime attacks initially blamed on nightmares but which she later recognized as abuse linked to their conflicts.
Legal Proceedings and Current Status
- Cordero T. Cervantes faces charges of second-degree murder, tampering with evidence, and tampering with a motor vehicle.
- McKayla C. Archambeau pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and related charges, with sentencing scheduled for November 14, 2025.
- Both fugitives were arrested in Arkansas following the shooting.
- Cervantes has been released on probation but is currently at large with an active warrant for his arrest.
For more detailed information on this case, visit the source article.
What Lies Ahead?
This case underscores the tragic consequences of jealousy and toxic relationships, carrying important lessons about violence and justice in close partnerships. As legal proceedings continue, the community watches closely, seeking answers and accountability.
What do you think about this chilling case of love and violence? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
