PORTLAND, OR – An Oregon man has been sentenced to life in prison following his conviction for the fatal shooting of a 31-year-old mother during a drum circle event in Portland last year. The Portalnd jury took just an hour to convict 28-year-old Wyatt Storm Belcher of second-degree murder, ruling that he shot Ash Smith on May 8, 2022.

On Monday, a judge handed Belcher a life sentence with the possibility of parole after 25 years. Belcher’s conviction came swiftly after a short jury deliberation, indicating the clarity of the evidence presented.

Smith, a mother of five, was attending the community event when chaos erupted. Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang as the gathering began to disperse. Smith was found on the ground, having suffered a gunshot wound to the back of her neck. Bystanders, who immediately attempted to assist Smith, later shared their ordeal in court, providing crucial testimony despite being visibly shaken by the experience.

Deputy District Attorney Devin Franklin applauded those who aided Smith in her final moments, acknowledging their courage and compassion under distressing circumstances. Their accounts were pivotal in securing Belcher’s conviction.

Police detained Belcher soon after the incident, assisted by detailed descriptions from witnesses. He was reportedly still armed at the time of his arrest, allegedly asking a witness if they “wanted to be shot as well,” further revealing the capricious nature of his attack.

The motive behind Smith’s shooting remains unclear, as authorities confirmed there was no known relationship between Belcher and Smith. This randomness left Smith’s family and the community grappling with the senseless act of violence.

At the time of her death, Smith was experiencing homelessness, adding another layer of tragedy to the case. Witnesses described her seeking help from attendees, reflecting her desperate circumstances.

Family tributes on social media highlighted Smith’s challenging life and kind nature. They aimed to raise funds for her funeral through an online campaign, emphasizing the profound loss felt by her children and loved ones.

Belcher’s trial faced multiple delays due to his mental health issues. Initially declared unfit, his condition was later reevaluated, allowing the trial to proceed. Court records noted his diagnosis of major depressive disorder and schizoaffective disorder, which were considered during the judicial process.