Karina Cooper’s shocking conviction for murdering her husband, Ryan Cooper, has opened a new legal battle. Despite collecting more than half a million dollars in life insurance shortly after his death, Ryan’s estate now seeks to reclaim the funds under Iowa’s “slayer statute.” A court hearing next month will determine whether Cooper’s payout must be returned.
A Murder That Shook Small-Town Iowa
On June 18, 2021, Ryan Cooper, 42, was found dead in his Traer, Iowa, home with two gunshot wounds to the face. Investigators quickly noted unusual circumstances, no signs of forced entry, a .22-caliber casing recovered from the scene, and bloodstain analysis suggesting he was shot while reclining. Suspicion mounted as evidence began pointing closer to home.
Life Insurance Collected Before Investigation Concluded
Just six months after Ryan’s death, his wife, Karina Cooper, received a payout of $514,882.21 from his life insurance policy. This occurred while authorities were still investigating the case. Nearly three years later, prosecutors would allege that the money was the motive behind Ryan’s killing.
Digital Clues and Chilling Messages
Investigators built their case through digital forensics, uncovering Snapchat messages between Karina and her alleged lover, Huston Danker. Among them was a reminder to “remember those casings” shortly before she called 911. Jurors also saw messages where Karina expressed open hostility toward her husband, writing that she “f,ing hate[d] him” and wished for his death in a truck accident.
Murder Conviction and Danker’s Guilty Plea
In February 2024, Karina was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. On July 11, 2025, a Linn County jury found her guilty, ensuring a mandatory life sentence in Iowa. Meanwhile, Danker pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in August 2025, avoiding trial. His sentencing is set for October 3, while Karina will be sentenced on September 19.
Estate Seeks to Reclaim Insurance Payout
Ryan’s siblings, Aaron Cooper and Michelle Wilson, who administer his estate, have filed a motion to freeze any remaining funds from the life insurance payout. Under Iowa’s slayer statute, no one who unjustifiably causes another’s death can profit from related life insurance. A hearing is scheduled for September 12 in Tama County, where the court will decide if Karina must return the $515,000.
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