Two young women were allegedly murdered by the boyfriend of one of them in a case of intimate partner violence that culminated in a police chase and an apparent murder-suicide in Kentucky.

The victims were identified as Jedance Hale, 18, and Lila Asher, 19. The alleged perpetrator was James Priddy, 21, according to WKYT.

According to authorities, Hale had decided to end her relationship with Priddy on Saturday and asked her friend Asher to accompany her to provide emotional support during the encounter.

A desperate call to 911

Hale's mother alerted authorities by calling emergency services when she suspected her daughter was being held against her will.

According to the audio broadcast by local media, the woman informed the operators that there was evidence that her daughter had tried to get away from Priddy for several hours.

The complaint triggered a search that allowed authorities to locate the vehicle in which the three people were traveling.

Officers identified a red Chevrolet Cobalt driven by Priddy and began a chase that lasted approximately thirty minutes.

Authorities said the driver repeatedly refused to stop. The chase ended when the vehicle collided with another car while officers were trying to block its path.

When the police approached the car they found the three occupants dead from gunshot wounds.

Preliminary investigation

The Laurel County Sheriff's Office indicated that the evidence collected indicates that Priddy shot both young women before taking his own life.

“All indications show that James Priddy shot and killed Hale and Asher before committing suicide,” authorities said.

The investigation continues to determine precisely the sequence of events.

The death of Lila Asher has generated a deep shock because she had recently become the mother of a girl.

Friends and family described both young women as inseparable and highlighted the strong bond they had.

"They were two innocent girls. One of them was the mother of a baby. This has been shocking for everyone," said Mackenzie Watts, a friend of the victims.

Shocked community

Relatives and friends launched a fundraising campaign to cover funeral expenses and support the affected families.

The message released by the organizers highlights that Hale and Asher shared a very close friendship and that their loved ones wish to honor that bond.

“Lila and Jedance shared a deep connection and always wanted to be together,” the initiative notes.

The case has had a strong impact on the local community and has revived concerns about the risks associated with violence in relationships, especially among young people.