DNA Evidence Links Another Suspect to Lexington Murder Case as Trial of Corry Jackson Unfolds

Lexington, KY – A complex forensic analysis presented during the ongoing murder trial of Corry Jackson has confirmed that DNA found on a 300 Blackout rifle linked to a fatal shooting in April 2023 matches a man not on trial, Courtney Wrenn. The testimony, delivered by DNA analyst Makayla Scott from Kentucky State Police, revealed that Wrenn’s DNA was found on the weapon, specifically on the trigger and lever.

Corry Jackson, 38, faces charges related to the shooting that resulted in the deaths of Lakeisha Hill, 32, and Timonte Harris, 43. Jackson was indicted in June 2023 and was arrested shortly after the incident, which occurred in the 400 block of Chestnut Street. The trial began on Monday and is slated to last for four days.

During the trial, Jackson’s attorney, Daniel Whitley, asserted in his opening statement that Wrenn would testify to firing the shots that killed Hill and Harris. Scott’s testimony confirmed Wrenn’s DNA presence on the rifle, which contradicts the prosecution’s narrative that linked Jackson to the shooting.

Despite this key evidence, Jackson was identified by a witness, Jennifer Renfro, who placed him at the scene, though her reliability came under scrutiny. Renfro claimed to have seen Jackson with a handgun following the gunfire, yet it was established that Harris was shot with the 300 Blackout rifle, raising questions about her testimony.

Additionally, another witness, Gary Mathis, testified he observed an individual in a green outfit firing at Harris. He later confirmed to police that Jackson was the shooter, but admitted during cross-examination that he could not identify the weapon used.

The trial also surfaced issues regarding evidence collection. Officer Phillip Johnson admitted a mistake when he allowed Jackson to wipe his hands before gunshot residue tests could be conducted. A forensic chemist later identified gunshot residue on Jackson’s skin and clothing, raising doubts as to the circumstances of his involvement.

Authorities, however, have not charged Wrenn in connection with Harris’s death. It is notable that he is facing charges in a separate homicide case from 2023 involving Stacey Marshall.

The testimony continues to unfold, with law enforcement expected to further clarify evidence collection practices and witness statements as the trial proceeds. The complexities of witness identification and forensic evidence may prove crucial in determining Jackson’s guilt or innocence in the next phases of the case.