Bensalem, Pennsylvania – A teenager from Bucks County was recently sentenced for the shooting and killing of a 12-year-old girl, followed by an attempt to cover up the crime by asking a friend for help on Instagram. The incident occurred in November 2022, leading to a shocking revelation that stunned the community.
Formerly known as Joshua Cooper, the now 18-year-old Ash Cooper pleaded guilty to third-degree murder, possession of a crime instrument, and tampering with physical evidence in connection with the tragic death of Morgan Connors. The sentencing included 15 to 40 years in state prison, with an additional seven years of probation, along with mandatory evaluations and compliance with probation guidelines.
Authorities responded to a distressing 911 call reporting a possible homicide at the Top of the Ridge Trailer Park on Gibson Road. An eyewitness revealed crucial information to investigators, recounting a chilling Instagram video chat conversation with Cooper, where the teenager admitted to accidentally killing someone and sought assistance in concealing the crime. The visual evidence shown during the chat included a gruesome scene of bloodied legs and feet.
Upon arrival at the scene, law enforcement encountered a teenager fleeing from the trailer, leading to the discovery of Connors’ lifeless body in the bathroom, the victim of a fatal gunshot wound. During subsequent investigations, it was evident that attempts had been made to clean up and conceal the tragic event, indicating premeditation and deceitful actions.
Further details emerged during the court proceedings, revealing that Cooper had acquired the murder weapon from her father’s safe while undertaking a household task. The manipulation of the safe’s combination lock rendered it inoperative, allowing the teenager unauthorized access to the firearm. The devastating impact of Connors’ untimely death was poignantly expressed through an impact statement read by Chief Deputy District Attorney Kristin McElroy, depicting the profound grief experienced by the victim’s family.
The sentencing of Ash Cooper serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of reckless actions and the devastating repercussions of violence within communities. The tragic loss of Morgan Connors reverberates as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact of senseless violence on families and communities. The court’s decision underscores the gravity of the offense and the imperative need for accountability and justice in the face of such heinous crimes.