Life Sentence for Woman Who Chased, Killed Hit-and-Run Driver – WSB-TV
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A woman in Clayton County, Georgia has been sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole for the murder of a hit-and-run driver in May 2019. The woman, identified as Payne, reportedly followed the driver, Kenneth Herring, after he hit another car and drove off, then confronted and shot him, ignoring calls from a 911 operator not to pursue him. The defense claimed Herring shot himself during a struggle for the gun, however, Payne was found guilty on all counts, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, false imprisonment, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
Woman found guilty in pursuing and killing hit-and-run driver
In Clayton County, Ga, a woman was found guilty of murder for the death of a hit-and-run driver in May 2019. The verdict was returned on Tuesday night, convicting Payne of the fatal shooting of Kenneth Herring.
The judge sentenced Payne to life in prison with parole possibility on the malice murder charge, plus 13 consecutive years for false imprisonment and firearm possession charges. Live emotional impact statements were presented in court before the sentencing.
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Prosecutors argued that Herring hit another car and fled the scene. Payne then pursued Herring, confronted and shot him, despite repeated warnings from a 911 operator.
Defense attorneys argued Payne was instructed to get Herring’s license plate number and claimed he accidentally shot himself during a struggle with the gun. However, the jury found Payne guilty on all counts, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, false imprisonment, and possession of a firearm.
Herring’s sister, Jacqueline Herring, expressed relief upon hearing the verdict.
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Closing arguments presented in case of woman accused of gunning down hit-and-run driver
This photo captures the closing moments of the trial.
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