A 29-year-old South Carolina man, John Patrick Shea, has been sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murder of his ex-girlfriend, Jillian Angner, in front of her young son. Shea pleaded guilty to all charges, including the premeditated murder of Angner and the attempted murder of her 6-year-old son.
The Tragic Crime
On March 2, 2023, John Shea ambushed Jillian Angner as she was preparing to take her son to school. The crime occurred outside Angner’s home when Shea, who had been stalking her for months after their breakup, opened fire on her and her child.
Angner was struck several times, including a fatal shot to her neck. Her son narrowly escaped the attack by crawling out of the vehicle and hiding in a nearby marsh.
Despite being rushed to the hospital and placed on life support, Angner never regained consciousness and passed away on August 5, 2023. The young boy, though physically unharmed, witnessed the terrifying event and survived by fleeing from the scene.
Shea’s Attempt to Flee and Evidence of Obsession
Shea was apprehended days after the shooting when authorities found him packing his car, preparing to flee the state. He had his passport and birth certificate with him, indicating his intention to escape.
A search of Shea’s apartment revealed disturbing items, including defaced photos of Angner, a makeshift shrine, and items linked to the occult, such as tarot cards and a voodoo doll.
Additionally, evidence suggested that Shea had been stalking other women dating back to 2008, keeping detailed notes on his past relationships.
Authorities also found a letter from Shea’s mother, expressing concern about her son’s violent tendencies, including a threat against his brother. The evidence painted a disturbing picture of a man obsessed with control and revenge.
Plea and Sentencing
Shea’s trial had just begun when he suddenly confessed to the murder and other crimes. He admitted to shooting Angner and trying to kill her son, and pleaded guilty to all charges without negotiation.
In court, Shea expressed deep regret for his actions, stating that he was mentally unstable at the time of the crime. He begged the judge to spare his life, but his plea was not granted.
Judge S. Bryan Doby sentenced Shea to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of Angner, as well as maximum sentences for the other charges, including attempted murder, discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
