An 18-year-old Kentucky resident, Jackie Turner, was sentenced to 30 years in prison on Monday for his involvement in a fatal shooting that stemmed from a family dispute over parenting. The incident, which began as an online disagreement on Facebook, escalated into a deadly confrontation that claimed the life of 23-year-old Seth Burns.
The dispute involved Turner, his mother Amanda Turner, his older brother Xxavion Turner, and two sisters. The family had set out on August 25, 2023, to confront Xxavion’s ex-girlfriend, who was reportedly dating Burns. The disagreement had originated online, with the parties involved criticizing each other’s parenting skills.
The situation took a turn for the worse when Amanda Turner drove her armed sons and two daughters to confront Xxavion’s ex-girlfriend. Xxavion had even sent a Google map screenshot to his ex-girlfriend, indicating their impending arrival. Upon reaching their destination, Xxavion allegedly fired a shot into the air and at Burns. Jackie is believed to have fired the fatal shot. Following the shooting, Amanda drove the family away in an attempt to evade the police.
Burns, who was severely injured, was rushed by witnesses to a nearby fire station. He was then airlifted to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. According to his father, Michael Burns, Seth was merely a passenger in the vehicle with his girlfriend when the Turner family arrived.
In the aftermath of the incident, Amanda Turner pleaded guilty to facilitating murder, riot, and an unlawful transaction with a minor. Prosecutors have recommended a 12-and-a-half-year sentence for her, with the final decision expected in November. During her plea hearing, Amanda admitted to having encouraged the confrontation via text messages, referring to the event as a “girl fight.”
Amanda’s daughters, Keavier Turner and Lakera Hughes, have also pleaded guilty to related charges and are awaiting sentencing. Xxavion Turner, who has been charged with murder, is set to face trial on November 13. Judge Kathleen Lape, who is presiding over the case, has described the violence as senseless and tragically unnecessary, highlighting the poor judgment that led to Burns’ death.