Ex-soldier claims self-defense in wife's murder trial

Jordan Henning, a former soldier, is on trial for the murder of his wife, Ashley, who was killed on her birthday in June 2023. The incident occurred in their home in Kentucky and was recorded by security cameras. During the trial, Henning tearfully claimed that he shot Ashley to escape years of abuse from her. He described incidents where she allegedly hurt him physically and emotionally, including kicking him and biting him. However, the night of the murder began with a celebration for Ashley's 37th birthday. Footage shown in court revealed the moments leading to the shooting. The video displayed Henning following Ashley into a room before firing his gun. He was seen reloading and shooting her again. Disturbingly, he was later caught on camera spitting on her body. At the time of the incident, their 13-year-old daughter was home but was resting upstairs due to an illness. In court, Henning denied the murder charge, despite being visibly distressed upon watching the shooting footage. The prosecution presented witnesses and evidence that challenged Henning's claims of abuse. Friends of Ashley described Henning as paranoid and violent. They disputed his excuses, noting that he had previously joked about using PTSD as a defense if he ever harmed someone. Closing arguments in the case are expected on Thursday. The trial continues to raise questions about mental health, domestic abuse, and accountability in violent incidents.