COVINGTON, KY – A Facebook argument about parenting escalated into a tragic chain of events, culminating in a 30-year prison sentence for an 18-year-old implicated in the fatal shooting of Seth Burns.
On Monday, a Kentucky judge imposed the sentence on Jackie Turner, who was 17 at the time of the incident. Jackie, along with his mother Amanda Turner, older brother Xxavion Turner, and two sisters, confronted Burns in what authorities described as a “family affair.” The confrontation began on August 25, 2023, when the family set out to settle a dispute between Xxavion and his ex-girlfriend, who was believed to be dating Burns.
The feud began online with criticisms about parenting skills. According to the Kenton County Commonwealth’s Attorney, the situation deteriorated when Amanda Turner drove her armed sons and two daughters to confront Xxavion’s ex-girlfriend. En route, Xxavion sent a Google map screenshot to his ex, indicating their arrival.
Upon reaching the location, Xxavion reportedly fired a shot into the air and at 23-year-old Burns, while Jackie delivered what was believed to be the fatal wound. After the shooting, Amanda drove them away, aiming to evade police.
Burns, who suffered gravely, was rushed by witnesses to a nearby fire station and subsequently airlifted to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Describing the victim, his father, Michael Burns, emphasized Seth’s innocence, indicating he was a mere passenger in the vehicle with his girlfriend when the Turners arrived.
Following 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 pending in November. At her plea hearing, Amanda confessed to having encouraged the confrontation via text messages and referred to the event as a “girl fight.”
Amanda’s daughters, Keavier Turner and Lakera Hughes, also pleaded guilty to related charges and await sentencing in the coming months. Meanwhile, Xxavion Turner, charged with murder, faces trial on November 13.
Judge Kathleen Lape, overseeing the case, termed the violence as senseless and needlessly tragic, emphasizing the poor judgment that led to Burns’ death.
