Man who killed his mother in Castle Rock sentenced to 48 years

DENVER (KDVR) — The man who pleaded guilty to killing his mother in Castle Rock has been sentenced on Wednesday. She was found stabbed to death in her home after it had been set on fire.

Matthew Buchanan was given the maximum sentence of 48 years for second-degree murder, attempt to commit first-degree murder and attempt to commit cruelty to animals. He originally was facing 11 charges stemming from the incident.

The animal cruelty charges stem from dogs that were inside the house during the fire, according to arrest affidavits.

On April 26, 2022, Elizabeth Bjorlow was killed in her own home by her adult son.

Police said Buchanan was 32 years old at the time of his mother’s death and had lived with Elizabeth and her husband for 16 years. Bryan Bjorlow, Elizabeth's hu...