American citizen Colin Richards has pleaded guilty to the murder of the Spanish golfer Celia Barquin, and has been sentenced to life in prison without parole.

Having previously been found innocent, 22 year old Richards has since confessed to the murder according to prosecutor Jessica Reynolds of Story County, Iowa, and on August 23rd he will be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

“My heart is with Celia’s family today with the hope that this result will provide them with a certain level of comfort,” said prosecutor Reynolds in a statement, “this tragic crime is something that has touched and saddened us all.”

Barquín’s body was found on the golf course at Coldwater Links, in Amed (State of Iowa) where she studied Civil Engineering.

The young Cantabrian was considered one of the greatest talents in the world of golf. Born in Torrelavega, she was the reigning European champion, after winning the Women’s Individual Championship 2018.