Ashlyn Brooke Smith was an 18-year-old from Cleburne, Texas, who died on July 25, 2020, in De Leon, Texas. Her death occurred during a violent incident that also killed her grandparents, Earl Stephens III and Patricia Stephens. Ashlyn was remembered as an avid Hello Kitty fan and was loved by many friends and family.

The suspect in the case was identified as Ashlyn’s ex-boyfriend, Brendan Layne Jenkins. Jenkins had been living in a camper on the grandparents’ property and was described as possessive and controlling. On the morning after the shootings, Jenkins reportedly called 911 around 7 a.m. to report the deaths. He was quickly identified as a suspect and arrested; he was charged with capital murder and later found guilty.

The family has spoken publicly about their grief and their desire for justice. The case drew significant media attention and left a deep impact on the community. If anyone knew Ashlyn, her grandparents, or has information about the events leading up to July 25, 2020, please come forward.