Lackawanna County, PA – A Pennsylvania man has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his girlfriend. Donnell Brunson, 57, received a mandatory life sentence from Judge Michael Barrasse, along with an additional term of 18 to 24 months for risking catastrophe.
The crimes occurred in November when Brunson killed his girlfriend, Danielle Barbuti, 49, after believing she was cheating on him. The jury found him guilty of first-degree murder.
On Nov. 28, Brunson attacked Barbuti in their shared apartment. He initially punched her before using a ceramic ashtray and a pillow as instruments of death.
After the attack, Brunson attempted to take his own life by ingesting sleeping pills and cutting his wrist. He turned on the gas stove in hopes of causing an explosion, which did not occur.
When Brunson awoke later that day, he became aware of Barbuti’s lifeless body. He covered her with a blanket and left the apartment, where police found a bloody scene upon their arrival.
Barbuti’s sister discovered the crime scene after failing to reach her sister. She found the apartment door open and uncovered the tragedy.
Law enforcement located Brunson that same day. He had returned to a mobile home after leaving Barbuti’s apartment. He was found under a blanket, with blood all over his hands and in the mobile home.
During the sentencing, Barbuti’s sister spoke about her loss and the impact on their family. Brunson expressed remorse but also mentioned perceived threats from Barbuti.
Her sister-in-law questioned Brunson’s claims of fear for his life. Emotions ran high as family members discussed the impact of Barbuti’s murder on their lives and family dynamics.