In the small town of Moberly, Missouri, a tragedy unfolded on November 21, 2015, claiming the life of 22-year-old Jessica Leanne Bowen, a Caucasian female. Jessica, a vibrant and caring individual, was on the cusp of realizing her dream of becoming a nurse, with her graduation from the Columbia Career Center's nursing program on the horizon in 2016.
Known for her beautiful smile and infectious laughter, she was a beloved daughter, sister, cousin, and friend who was said to love unconditionally.
The day began in horror when Alexander Hewgley, 17, of Madison, Missouri, forced his way into the Bowen residence. Authorities believe Hewgley had a prior relationship with Jessica's younger sister, 16-year-old Kelsey Bowen. Around 6:30 a.m., deputies from the Randolph County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to the home following a report of a shooting. Upon their arrival, they discovered a devastating scene.
Inside the home, one of the sisters was already deceased, and the other was in critical condition. Jessica was rushed to a local hospital in Moberly, but tragically, she succumbed to her injuries. Her sister, Kelsey, a junior at Moberly High School, also did not survive the attack. The investigation, conducted by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, quickly determined that the incident was a double homicide followed by a suicide.
Hewgley, the sole suspect in the brutal slayings, was found at the scene with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was transported to a hospital in Columbia, where he later died. The community of Moberly was left in shock and mourning at the senseless loss of the two sisters. In the wake of the tragedy, both the Columbia Area Career Center and Moberly High School offered counseling services to students and staff grappling with the grief. A public visitation and funeral service were held to honor the memories of Jessica and Kelsey Bowen, bringing together a community united in sorrow.
