Ryan Avery Sentenced for Mother's Murder

Ryan Scott Avery, a 42-year-old man from Aurora, was sentenced to 48 years in prison for the second-degree murder of his mother, Deborah Avery, who was shot three times in their home in June 2021. The investigation revealed that Ryan was unhappy with his sister's recent control over their mother's finances, which may have motivated the crime. Evidence found in his car, including a .380 caliber handgun matching the bullets used in the murder, led to his conviction for murder, attempted first-degree assault, and felony menacing. An autopsy confirmed Deborah was shot twice in the face and once in the chest while seated in her recliner. Assistant District Attorney Tom Byrnes expressed hope that the sentence would bring closure to Deborah's family and friends. Ryan Avery's actions were described as a profound betrayal by Senior Deputy DA Joel Zink.