Circumstantial Case, High Stakes: Defense Attorney Josh Kolsrud Breaks Down the Michael Abadi Murder Charges

A Case Built on Circumstantial Evidence

Defense attorney Josh Kolsrud emphasized that the prosecution’s case against Michael Abatti hinges almost entirely on circumstantial evidence. According to Kolsrud, investigators do not have a confession, a murder weapon, or direct forensic proof tying Abatti to the shooting. What they do have are travel records and timestamps allegedly showing Abatti driving from California to Pinetop and back within a 24-hour window. Kolsrud noted this timeline will be central to prosecutors attempting to establish motive, means, and opportunity—but stressed that circumstantial evidence alone still leaves significant room for doubt.

Divorce Dispute as Motive — But Not Proof

Kolsrud highlighted the bitter divorce and financial dispute as a potential motive prosecutors will rely on. He explained that the disagreement reportedly involved a large gap in spousal support expectations—roughly $25,000 per month—between what Carrie Anne was receiving and what she was seeking. However, Kolsrud cautioned that motive does not equal guilt. While financial conflict can provide a reason, it does not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Abatti committed the crime, a standard prosecutors must still meet.

Challenges of a Remote Crime Scene

Another key insight from Kolsrud focused on the setting of the alleged crime. Pinetop’s remote, forested environment and large acreage make it far less likely that neighbors would hear or see anything unusual. Kolsrud explained that this isolation complicates the investigation, as the absence of witnesses or immediate corroboration is far different from a shooting in a dense urban area like Phoenix. This remoteness could cut both ways—making the crime harder to solve and the case harder to conclusively prove.

What Comes Next in the Legal Process

Kolsrud outlined that the case is still in its earliest stages. With Abatti pleading not guilty and currently held on a $5.5 million bond, the defense is expected to challenge the bond amount while preparing for multiple status conferences ahead. Kolsrud noted that high-profile murder cases like this typically take a year or more before reaching trial. He also pointed out that prosecutors will face a major hurdle in definitively placing Abatti at the crime scene, especially if the defense raises the possibility of an alibi or argues that vehicle sightings do not prove who was actually behind the wheel.

Key Takeaways

• The case relies heavily on circumstantial evidence, not direct proof.

• Financial disputes may suggest motive but do not establish guilt.

• The remote Pinetop location complicates witness and evidence development.

• Prosecutors must conclusively place Abatti at the scene to secure a conviction