An East End man, Jayeson Lee Ashley, has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for a fatal road rage shooting incident. The sentencing was handed down by Saline County Circuit Judge Josh Farmer.
Ashley, 21, pled guilty to two counts of Terroristic Act, receiving a 40-year prison sentence followed by a 10-year suspended imposition of sentence. This plea was entered ahead of a scheduled jury trial.
The incident occurred on April 20, 2024, when Ashley fired shots into a truck in which Ian Milligan and Nicholas French were driving on Arch Street, resulting in Milligan’s death after being struck in the head and neck. French was unharmed in the shooting.
Ashley fled the scene and attempted to involve his cousin, Ceara Force, in covering up his actions. Force later pled guilty to hindering apprehension or prosecution.
Initially claiming self-defense, Ashley’s account was disputed by French, who detailed how Ashley exited his vehicle, confronted them, and then fired at them as they attempted to drive away. Ashley pursued them and continued shooting.
During the sentencing hearing, the families of the victims addressed the court, expressing their grief and the challenges faced since the incident.
Prosecuting Attorney Chris Walton acknowledged the efforts of the Saline County Sheriff’s Office, particularly Detective Jennifer Tarvin, for their role in securing Ashley’s arrest and conviction, noting the enhanced safety of the community as a result.
“She and her coworkers’ efforts resulted in the arrest and lengthy prison sentence of Ashley. Our community is safer because of their work on this case,” said Walton.
