Douglas Hearne, a 48-year-old man from Wichita Falls, TX, tragically died on March 12, 2016, from gunshot wounds sustained during an altercation at The Haystack bar. The incident began when a disturbance occurred between two individuals at the bar, leading to one person being escorted out by a bouncer. Shortly after, multiple shots were fired outside the bar. Douglas Hearne, who was inside the bar at the time, attempted to keep the door closed to prevent the shooter from entering.
Despite his efforts, Hearne was shot once in the lower right chest and once in his right leg.
The suspect, Ashlie Marie Couch, a 30-year-old woman, was taken into custody by Wichita Falls police shortly after the shooting. Couch claimed that she picked up a semi-automatic handgun and fired into the carpet inside the bar in retaliation for her cousin being shot outside. However, evidence collected at the scene did not support her account. Couch was initially charged with murder but later pleaded guilty to manslaughter as part of a plea agreement. She was sentenced to 20 years in prison and received credit for time served since the day of the shooting.
The case drew significant attention due to the circumstances of the shooting and the subsequent legal proceedings. Couch's defense requested a state-appointed investigator, which was granted, and she eventually received a court-appointed attorney. The incident highlighted issues related to bar security and the use of firearms in public places.
In summary, Douglas Hearne's death was the result of a violent altercation at a bar, leading to the arrest and eventual conviction of Ashlie Marie Couch for manslaughter. The case underscored the importance of maintaining safety in public venues and the severe consequences of using firearms in such settings.
