Ashley Nicole Hope Carpenter, an 18-year-old female of Caucasian ethnicity, tragically lost her life on December 31, 2013, in Barberton, Ohio. She was a senior at Barberton High School and an active member of the high school band. Ashley, along with her 14-year-old brother David Kohler-Carpenter, was shot and killed during a home invasion robbery at their father's house. Their father, John Kohler, and his girlfriend, Ronda Blankenship, were also injured in the attack.
The incident occurred on New Year's Eve when at least two gunmen broke into the family home around 7 p.m. The attackers were believed to be motivated by robbery, although the exact details of what was taken, if anything, were not disclosed. The police responded to a 911 call and found Ashley and David deceased at the scene. Their father and his girlfriend were critically wounded and taken to Akron hospitals for treatment.
Following the tragic incident, the Barberton Police Department launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the suspects. The investigation led to the arrest of Eric Hendon and his brother Michael Hendon. Eric Hendon was charged with aggravated murder, attempted murder, aggravated robbery, felonious assault, and having a weapon under disability. He was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Michael Hendon was also convicted and received three life sentences to be served consecutively without parole.
The community mourned the loss of Ashley and David, and a candlelight vigil was held in their memory. The family expressed their gratitude to friends, the school community, and the police for their support during this difficult time. Ashley's obituary described her as a wonderful child who loved music, spending time with friends, and helping others.
The case of Ashley Carpenter's death remains a somber reminder of the impact of violent crime on families and communities. The Hendons' convictions brought some measure of justice, but the loss of Ashley and David continues to be deeply felt by those who knew and loved them.
