Negotiated Plea Reached in Cumberland County Murder Case

A negotiated plea has been reached in a Cumberland County murder case.

45-year-old Toby Lane of Westfield has pleaded guilty to second degree murder and aggravated battery involving a controlled substance. Lane pleaded guilty to inflicting blows to the head of Bridget Duncan and administering a controlled substance to her, resulting in Duncan's death in July of 2020.

Lane had originally been charged with first degree murder as well as aggravated domestic battery. Cumberland County State's Attorney Bryan Robbins said that Lane has agreed to accept the maximum sentence, which is 20 years for second degree murder and 15 years for the aggravated battery count. 

Robbins said the second degree murder offense alleges that Lane killed Duncan but with strong provocation and as a sudden or intense action.

Lane is due back in court on January 10 before Judge Jonathan Braden, when sentencing could occur.

Lane remains in custody under $1 million bond.