Snapped: Women Who Murder — Episode Summary: Kathryn Sinkevitch

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Snapped: Women Who Murder, hosted by Oxygen, listeners are taken through the harrowing true crime story of Catherine Sinkovich and the tragic murder of her ex-boyfriend, Michael Agiter. Released on March 30, 2025, the episode delves deep into the complexities of their relationship, the unraveling events leading to Michael's death, and the subsequent investigation that ultimately led to Catherine's conviction.

Background on Michael Agiter

Michael Agiter was born on July 26, 1985, in Valparaiso, Indiana, and was the eldest of four siblings. Known for his caring nature and passion, Michael moved with his family to Urbana, Ohio, in 2002. His love for sports, particularly football, led him to secure jobs at First Ohio Mortgage Company and later at Chase Bank in Columbus.

In 2010, seeking better opportunities and favorable weather, Michael relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, where he joined Wells Fargo. Less than a year later, his friend Chris Grindy followed suit, and the two became roommates, forging a strong bond as they settled into their new lives in the desert.

Relationship with Catherine Sinkovich

In 2013, Michael decided to explore online dating, which led him to Catherine Sinkovich, a 28-year-old working at a local call center in Maricopa. Their immediate chemistry culminated in adventurous dates, including skydiving ([09:33] Narrator). Catherine, originally from Southern California with Russian ancestry and the youngest of eight children, had a tragic past marked by the loss of her parents and a tumultuous upbringing. Despite her painful history, she maintained a private demeanor, keeping personal details largely to herself ([10:31] Lawyer).

The couple quickly became inseparable, with Catherine moving into Michael's home in Tempe along with Chris and their dog, Darwin, in 2013 ([11:15] Narrator). By fall 2015, their relationship seemed to be flourishing as they moved into their own apartment and welcomed news of Catherine's pregnancy in spring 2016 ([12:13] Narrator).

Deterioration of the Relationship

As Catherine's pregnancy progressed, underlying tensions surfaced. Michael was outgoing and gregarious, while Catherine became increasingly reserved and accusatory, alleging infidelity on Michael's part. Friends and family noted a significant shift in Catherine's behavior, describing her as controlling and passive-aggressive ([27:34] Investigator).

Physical abuse ensued, with Catherine reportedly knocking Michael out and headbutting him on multiple occasions ([29:07] Family Member). Despite these challenges, Michael remained committed, even taking parental classes and preparing for the arrival of their child. However, the relationship continued to deteriorate, leading Michael to seek legal protection against Catherine in April 2016 ([30:57] Lawyer).

The Murder Event

On December 16, 2016, at approximately 2:30 PM, Michael Agiter was found dead in his garage in Maricopa, Arizona. He had been executed-style, with three bullets fired: one to the head and another through the car's door and seat, embedding into his back ([14:14] Narrator, [14:55] Detective).

Neighbors reported hearing the gunshots and observing a white minivan parked near Michael's house shortly before the incident ([16:11] Narrator). Initial investigations revealed no signs of a robbery or struggle inside the house, but a surveillance system was present, which became crucial evidence later in the case ([15:40] Narrator).

Investigation Process

The Maricopa Police Department quickly initiated a thorough investigation. Detective teams canvassed the neighborhood, interviewed witnesses, and began piecing together the timeline of events ([04:03] Detective).

Michael's friend, Chris Grindy, was among the first to learn of the tragedy. He confirmed that Michael was not involved in any criminal activities and stood as a character witness ([06:22] Lawyer). However, the lack of an immediate suspect led investigators to focus on Catherine Sinkovich, Michael's ex-girlfriend.

Evidence Collected

1. Surveillance Footage:

   • Initial neighbor testimonies provided conflicting descriptions of the suspect's vehicle. Later, footage from Michael's home security cameras showed a white minivan parked across the street. A figure in a hoodie was seen approaching Michael's car and fleeing swiftly just seconds before Michael was killed ([17:06] Detective).

2. Vehicle Analysis:

   • The minivan observed was later linked to Bridget Hopkins, Catherine's coworker, through license plate identification. Interior footage revealed that Catherine had used Bridget's key card to access the building on the day of the murder, contradicting Bridget's earlier statements ([35:21] Expert).

3. Cell Phone Records:

   • Catherine's phone pings indicated she was at work around the time of the murder and then back shortly after, suggesting she may have turned off her phone to avoid tracking ([36:30] Detective). Additionally, her computer showed research on disabling phone tracking ([36:48] Detective).

4. Gunshot Residue (GSR) Tests:

   • Tests on Bridget's van returned positive for significant gunshot residue, strengthening the case against Catherine as the perpetrator ([44:02] Detective).

Arrest and Trial

After mounting evidence, including the surveillance footage, cell phone records, key card usage, and GSR results, authorities obtained an arrest warrant for Catherine Sinkovich. Catherine fled upon the issuance of the warrant, leading the US Marshals Fugitive Task Force to apprehend her in Avondale. During her arrest, Catherine remained silent, refusing to provide a statement ([40:39] Narrator).

Her newborn son was found safe, and paternity tests confirmed Michael Agiter as the father, adding emotional weight to the case ([43:06] Witness).

The trial commenced in May 2019. Despite the prosecution lacking a physical murder weapon and relying heavily on circumstantial evidence, the presence of GSR in Bridget's van, coupled with Catherine's suspicious behavior and flight, led to her conviction. On May 7, 2019, the jury found Catherine guilty, and she was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole ([44:26] Narrator, [45:10] Narrator).

Catherine appealed her conviction, but in October 2020, the court upheld the original ruling, confirming her life sentence at Perryville Prison ([46:34] Witness).

Conclusion

The tragic story of Michael Agiter and Catherine Sinkovich serves as a poignant reminder of how complex and destructive abusive relationships can become. Despite Michael's efforts to support and protect his loved ones, the relationship's dark turn led to his untimely death. The diligent work of law enforcement, combined with the perseverance of Michael's family and friends, brought justice, albeit delayed, to a heartbreaking situation.

Michael’s family continues to cope with his loss, finding strength in the memory of his generosity and love. Catherine’s conviction closes a painful chapter, but the lingering grief and the impact on Michael’s newborn son remain enduring legacies of this tragic event.

Notable Quotes:

• Detective (04:24): "They don't know. Is this somebody who committed suicide? Is there an active shooter on the loose?"
• Lawyer (13:35): "Three bullets were fired. One of the bullets struck the b pillar. Two of the other three that were fired struck Michael."
• Family Member (18:21): "He had asked me to hold on, to switch over to the phone instead of the car. And the next thing was, he had said, holy. And I had heard three gunshots."
• Detective (35:32): "It's not Bridget that's leaving the building. It's Catherine who's leaving the building. And she's using Bridget's key card."
• Friend (45:23): "I absolutely think she got what she deserved. But I still think that's getting off a little easier."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key moments, discussions, and insights from the "Kathryn Sinkevitch" episode of Snapped: Women Who Murder, providing an engaging and informative overview for both listeners and those unfamiliar with the case.