As part of a plea deal, one of two Ohio teens accused of dropping a huge log at a photographer killing her in 2019 admitted to his role in the evil prank.
Victoria Schafer died instantly when Jaden W. Churchheus and Jordan Buckey, both 17, dropped the 75-lb. log off a cliff as she took pictures of high school students below.
Churchheus pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. He had murder and reckless homicide charges dropped.
The boys are being tried as adults but their case will now be brought back to juvenile court for sentencing.
Prosecutors will recommend the teen serve between three years and 4.5 years in a juvenile detention center.
“That day at Old Man’s Cave, I never would have imagined that my actions would result in this,” Churchhueus emotionally said at the court.
“I have thought about the fact that I caused someone’s death every day since it happened, and I will carry that with me for the rest of my life. I appreciate the kindness of Ms. Schafer’s family, the attorney general’s office, and the prosecutor’s office in giving me a second chance.”
“I realize that nothing I say can bring Ms. Schafer back, but I am truly sorry.”
