Andrew Lester died on Wednesday (Feb. 19), according to a statement from Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson. The news comes just days after the 86-year-old plead guilty to felony assault in the second degree for shooting Ralph Yarl, the Black teenager who accidentally knocked on his door in 2023.
Lester was set to face trial this week after entering the guilty plea on Friday (Feb. 14). He was expected to be sentenced on Mar. 7.
“We have learned of the passing of Andrew Lester and extend our sincere condolences to his family during this difficult time,” said Thompson. “While the legal proceedings have now concluded, we acknowledge that Mr. Lester did take responsibility for his actions by pleading guilty in this case. Our thoughts remain with both families affected by this tragic incident as they continue their healing process.”
Second-degree assault, which is a Class D felony, carries a sentence of up to seven years in prison, Thompson noted.
ABC News reported that Lester was initially charged with one count of felony assault in the first-degree and one count of armed criminal action. Lester shot the teenager in the head and right arm after Yarl knocked on his door when attempting to pick up his younger brothers, mistaking Lester’s home for someone else’s. Lester thought he was an intruder, per a probable cause statement. He initially plead not guilty and was released on $200,000 bond.
Yarl’s family feels “justice was never truly served,” per a statement following news of Lester’s death. “The news of Andrew Lester’s passing brings a mix of emotions, but it does not bring justice. We remain committed to seeking a world where no child fears for their life because of their race, and no family has to endure what we have. Ralph’s story is far from over, and neither is our fight for justice.”
Yarl was 16 at the time and suffered a traumatic brain injury.
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