Austin Tyler Hensley was an 18-year-old junior at Ross High School who died on January 30, 2018, of a gunshot wound to the head. He was found in a house with a shotgun lying against his temple, but investigators later determined the shotgun was not loaded. Austin had planned to enlist in the United States Army and was remembered for his love of animals and spending time outdoors with family.

The shooting occurred during a robbery attempt by fellow Ross High School student Zachary Welsh, then 17. Welsh initially claimed self-defense but later admitted he intended to rob Austin of the shotgun and that the weapon discharged during an altercation. Welsh was charged with murder, aggravated robbery, felonious assault, and tampering with evidence; he ultimately pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter, aggravated robbery, and tampering with evidence and received a 30-year sentence under a plea agreement. His case drew attention because of prior charges and competency and insanity evaluations raised by his defense.

Austin’s death had a deep impact on his family, friends, and the community. If anyone knew Austin or has information relevant to what happened that night, please share what you remember.