Complaint Alleges Suspect in McFarland Woman’s Death was Abusive, had Threatened to Kill Her

A 25-year-old Madison man, James Barnes-Morris, has been charged with first-degree intentional homicide in connection with the death of 24-year-old Brooke Strattan. The criminal complaint against him details multiple instances of abuse and threats leading up to her tragic death. Strattan’s body was found in a retention pond days after she was reported missing. Investigators believe Barnes-Morris was the last person to see her alive. If convicted, he faces a mandatory life sentence.

A History of Abuse and Threats

According to the criminal complaint, Strattan’s journal entries and text messages revealed a troubled and violent relationship with Barnes-Morris. They reportedly began dating in late 2023 and had been living together. One journal entry from August 18, 2024, described instances where Barnes-Morris allegedly beat her and nearly killed her. In text messages on September 29, Strattan expressed fear of meeting up with him, believing he would kill her.

Disappearance and Suspicious Behavior

Strattan was last seen on September 30, 2024, around 7 a.m. near Odana Road and Whitney Way, walking with a man believed to be Barnes-Morris. Her family reported her missing on October 1. The complaint states that two witnesses saw Barnes-Morris that day with scratches on his face and wet, muddy clothes. He allegedly admitted to fighting with Strattan but refused to say where she was. During a gathering on September 30, Barnes-Morris allegedly made disturbing comments, including “I had to get rid of her, she knew too much” and “I need another brick and a rope.”

Conflicting Statements and Investigation

When police questioned Barnes-Morris on October 3, he repeatedly changed his story about the last time he saw Strattan and the details of their argument. Initially, he claimed they had argued near the pond, and she walked away down Monroe Street. Later, he said she fell face-first into the pond and that he jumped in but stopped because it was muddy. Then, he changed his story again, stating she voluntarily swam in the pond. Friends of Strattan told police she had previously confided that Barnes-Morris had hurt her and made threats to kill her.

Autopsy Results and Court Appearance

An autopsy report determined that Strattan’s tentative cause of death was drowning. However, further toxicology testing and investigation are needed. The report also noted bruises on her temple, cheek, and fingers, suggesting a possible struggle. Barnes-Morris is scheduled to appear in Dane County court on Friday. If found guilty, he faces a mandatory life sentence.