What began as a reported domestic dispute in southeastern Kentucky ended in heartbreak late Saturday night when two young women were found dead alongside a 21-year-old man after a police pursuit crossed county lines and came to a sudden stop in Laurel County.
Authorities identified the victims as 19-year-old Kira Lila Hope Asher of Lily and 18-year-old Jadence Ann Marie Hale. Both teenagers died from gunshot wounds. Laurel County Coroner Doug Bowling ruled their deaths homicides. The suspected shooter, 21-year-old James Priddy of Bimble, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Investigators say the events unfolded after police in Barbourville responded to a reported domestic violence situation involving the three individuals. According to authorities, concerns were raised when Priddy allegedly refused to allow the two young women to leave a red Chevrolet Cobalt.
Police later located the vehicle, but investigators say the driver refused to stop. A pursuit followed, reaching speeds of more than 100 miles per hour as the car traveled from Knox County into neighboring Laurel County.
The chase came to an end on Kentucky Highway 312 near Keavy in southern Laurel County. Authorities said the vehicle eventually stopped after crashing during the pursuit. When officers approached the car, they made a devastating discovery.
All three occupants were found dead inside the vehicle from gunshot wounds. Investigators believe Priddy shot Hale and Asher before turning the gun on himself. Officials said the preliminary evidence points to a murder-suicide, although the investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities also stated that Hale was believed to have been in a relationship with Priddy. The exact circumstances leading up to the deadly incident continue to be examined by investigators.
Multiple agencies, including the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office, Knox County Sheriff’s Office, Barbourville Police Department, Kentucky State Police, and the Laurel County Coroner’s Office, are working together to determine every detail of what happened during the final hours of the three young people involved.
The tragedy has left families, friends, and community members mourning the loss of two teenage lives that ended far too soon. As investigators continue their work, many questions remain, but the pain left behind is already deeply felt across the communities connected to the victims.
