Ashley Marie Lockhart, a 25-year-old woman from Youngstown, Ohio, tragically died on October 8, 2021, as a result of domestic violence. She was born on June 28, 1996, and was the daughter of Michael Lockhart and Kelley Jones. Ashley was a loving mother to her five-year-old daughter, Autumn Renee, who was the center of her world. She worked as a receptionist at the Ankle & Foot Care Center and had previously worked in various roles at the Northeast Ohio Correctional Center and St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital.
The investigation into Ashley's death revealed that Steve W. Green III, the father of her child, was responsible for her murder. On the day of the incident, Green followed Ashley to the parking lot of the Compass West Apartments in Austintown, where he shot her six times while blocking her car. The Mahoning County Prosecutor's Office described Green's actions as premeditated, noting that he had sent multiple threatening texts to Ashley and had a history of terrorizing and abusing her.
Green was found guilty of aggravated murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. During the trial, Green claimed that the gun went off accidentally when Ashley grabbed it, but the jury rejected this defense and convicted him based on the evidence presented. The judge, Anthony D'Apolito, expressed his disbelief at the senseless nature of the crime and the devastating impact it had on Ashley's family, especially her young daughter.
Ashley's family and friends have been vocal about keeping her story alive to raise awareness about domestic violence and to honor her memory. They have expressed their gratitude to everyone who has supported them and helped to keep Ashley's story in the public eye. Ashley will be remembered for her bubbly personality, loving spirit, and her ability to make everyone around her laugh and smile.
Ashley's death has left a lasting impact on her family and community, and her story serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing domestic violence and supporting victims.
