Jefferson County, Colorado – A man was sentenced to over 50 years in prison on Friday for the murder of his girlfriend, Laila Combes, who was found dead in a car parked outside a restaurant at Colorado Mills in March.
Cole Lewis pleaded guilty earlier this year to second-degree murder and second-degree assault in the death of 19-year-old Laila Combes. The sentencing by a Jefferson County judge included 48 years for the murder charge and nine years for the assault charge, which will be served consecutively as per the 1st Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
According to the District Attorney’s Office, Lewis and Combes worked together at a restaurant near the mall where Combes was found dead. It was revealed that the tragic incident occurred after Lewis and Combes had an argument the day before. Lewis, under the influence of alcohol, confessed to authorities that he experienced a state of “blinding rage” which resulted in a blackout.
Lewis recounted driving to Combes’ apartment around 11 p.m. and a subsequent crash into a tree where the car sustained damage. He then drove to the parking lot of the restaurant where they worked, where he confessed to strangling Combes and attacking her with a broken tequila bottle, leading to fatal stab wounds in her face, neck, and chest.
The District Attorney’s Office shared resources for individuals in crisis, including Safe2Tell Colorado, a service for anonymous reporting of any concerns or threats, and Colorado Crisis Services, a 24/7 support line for those facing mental health or emotional crises. Additionally, Violence Free Colorado was recommended for finding domestic violence programs, with emergency contacts such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline provided.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help and support in cases of domestic violence, emphasizing the need for intervention before such situations escalate. The sentencing of Lewis brings a sense of closure to a devastating chapter, shedding light on the critical issue of domestic violence and the resources available for those in need.