Two Teens Killed and Driver Dead in Apparent Murder‑Suicide After Police Chase
Authorities say the driver shot two passengers before dying by suicide and multiple law enforcement agencies are conducting a joint investigation.
Overview
- Police began pursuing a red Chevrolet Cobalt after a reported possible domestic‑violence incident, and the chase crossed from Barbourville into southern Laurel County before ending on Kentucky Highway 312 when the car became boxed in and struck another vehicle.
- Responders found three people dead inside the vehicle and later identified them as 21‑year‑old James Priddy, 18‑year‑old Jadence A. M. Hale, and 19‑year‑old Kira L. H. Asher.
- Laurel County Coroner Doug Bowling ruled Hale and Asher were homicides caused by gunshot wounds and Priddy died from a self‑inflicted gunshot; authorities say Priddy shot the two teens before killing himself.
- The Laurel County Sheriff’s Office, Knox County Sheriff’s Office and Barbourville City Police Department are leading the active, multi‑agency probe with help from Kentucky State Police and several local rescue and emergency units.
- Investigators continue to examine scene evidence and have released victims’ ages and hometowns while declining further details as the inquiry and notifications to families proceed.