Jackson Hopper sentenced to forty years for murder of ex girlfriend

Jackson Hopper, 27, has been sentenced to 40 years in prison after accepting a plea deal for the 2024 murder of his ex-girlfriend, Ellie Claire Young.

Hopper appeared in court on Wednesday, where he pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of second-degree murder, effectively avoiding a first-degree murder trial that had been scheduled to begin this July.

The tragic incident occurred on 19 October 2024, during the American Cancer Society’s "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer" walk at Shelby Farms Park.

According to court records, Hopper ambushed the 22-year-old victim in a car park, firing multiple shots into her vehicle before fatally shooting her as she lay on the ground.

Following the attack, Hopper led authorities on a high-speed chase through Tipton, Lauderdale, and Dyer counties, during which he allegedly attempted to run over law enforcement officers.

Judge Carlyn Addison addressed Young’s family during the sentencing, stating, "I only accept it so that now, you can begin to heal."

The 40-year term was finalised with the support of the family, whose attorney noted that the resolution finally allows them to move on from the criminal proceedings.

While the murder case is now closed, Hopper still faces a litany of charges related to the police pursuit, including aggravated assault and evading arrest.

Furthermore, a $10 million wrongful death lawsuit filed by Young’s family is expected to proceed now that the stay order on the civil case has been lifted.