Lila Kira Asher, a 19-year-old female also reported in some accounts as Kira Lila Hope Asher, was killed in Kentucky after what authorities described as a domestic violence situation that turned into a double murder-suicide. Online reports identified her as being from Lily, Kentucky, while her death was recorded in Keavy, Kentucky. She was one of two young women found dead after a police chase that began in Knox County and ended in southern Laurel County late on June 6, 2026, with the deaths
reported on June 7.
The night reportedly began with concern from family members after Jadence or Jadeance Hale, who was in a relationship with James Priddy of Bimble, Kentucky, was said to be trying to end that relationship. Lila was with Hale that night, reportedly there as support while Hale attempted to separate from Priddy. Authorities said the situation was treated as a possible domestic violence incident, and police became involved after concerns were raised that the young women were not safe.
Barbourville police located a red Chevrolet Cobalt connected to the report at about 10:45 p.m. A pursuit followed from the Barbourville area into southern Laurel County. The chase ended on Kentucky Highway 312 after officers boxed in the vehicle and the driver struck another vehicle before stopping. When police reached the car, they found three people inside with gunshot wounds: Lila, Hale, and Priddy.
Investigators said Priddy shot and killed both young women before turning the gun on himself. Laurel County Coroner Doug Bowling ruled Lila’s death and Hale’s death homicides caused by gunshot wounds, while Priddy’s death was ruled a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Reports described Priddy as Hale’s boyfriend and identified him as the suspected shooter.
No arrests were made because the suspected killer died at the scene. There were no charges, trial, plea, or conviction reported in the case. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office, Knox County Sheriff’s Office, Barbourville Police Department, Kentucky State Police, Laurel County Coroner’s Office, and emergency responders.
Friends and community members described Lila and Hale as deeply close, with one friend saying the two were always together. Lila was also described in reports as a young mother to a baby girl who was not in the car when the shooting happened. After their deaths, fundraising efforts were organized for the families, and a Pineville funeral home reportedly arranged services for the two young women, whose families wanted to honor the bond they shared.
