Tragic Triple Murder Leaves Ashland Community Devastated: Man Kills Fiancée and Her Two Daughters

In a horrifying incident that has left the Ashland community in deep shock, a man has allegedly killed his fiancée and her two teenage daughters before turning the gun on himself. The incident took place on December 14th, 2021, and has left friends, family, and neighbors grappling with an unimaginable tragedy.

The victims have been identified as 53-year-old Christina Bell, her 19-year-old daughter Autumn Bell, and 16-year-old Alaria Bell. The suspect, who authorities believe to be Christina Bell’s fiancé, has been identified as 62-year-old Ronald “Butch” Cobren Jr.

The heart-wrenching incident came to light when law enforcement received reports of a man being shot in the stomach at a residence in Ashland. Upon arrival, they discovered the injured man, who has not been named, as well as the lifeless body of Autumn Bell. The injured man was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where he is fighting for his life.

After gathering information from the injured man, authorities proceeded to another location in Ashland, where they discovered the bodies of Christina and Alaria Bell. The discovery of these additional victims has sent shockwaves through the community, as friends and neighbors struggle to comprehend the magnitude of the tragedy.

Autumn Bell had recently shared the joyous news of her pregnancy on social media, adding another layer of heartbreak to the devastating loss. Friends and loved ones have described Alaria as a diligent student who excelled academically, while Christina had been a loving and dedicated mother to her daughters.

As the news of the triple murder spread, an overwhelming sense of grief and disbelief descended upon the tight-knit Ashland community. Rachel Pearn, a family friend, expressed her shock, stating, “Everybody is just truly shocked. I can’t even begin to wrap my head around it. Why it happened, and neither can they. Everyone is just completely devastated.”

Law enforcement officials later located Cobren’s vehicle, where they discovered the suspected shooter dead from an apparent suicide. The tragic events of that fateful day are still under investigation, as authorities strive to uncover the motives behind this senseless act of violence.

The Alarming Prevalence of Murder-Suicides

Murder-suicides, although relatively uncommon, continue to be a cause for concern, with up to 600 such incidents occurring each year in the United States, according to the FBI. These tragic events claim the lives of approximately 1,000 individuals annually.

While murder-suicides can vary in terms of the relationships between the individuals involved and the locations where they occur, the majority of these incidents involve two people within domestic settings or relationships. Shockingly, around 65% of murder-suicides involve intimate partners, with a staggering 81% taking place within the confines of the home.

In light of this devastating incident and the ongoing struggle faced by many, it is crucial to prioritize mental health and well-being. If you or someone you know is battling with mental health issues or experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Ashland, a peaceful town situated approximately 20 miles northwest of Springfield, now mourns the loss of three innocent lives, forever scarred by this deeply tragic event.