Who Was Ashlee Long?

Ashlee Long was a rising star in the Houston real estate scene, working with prestigious firms like Keller Williams, Magnolia Realty, and Century 21. Born and raised in Texas, she graduated from the University of Houston in 2019 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Engaged to Jacob Underwood, Long was known for her dedication, professionalism, and warm personality. Her life was full of promise, with plans for a bright future that included her career and upcoming marriage.

Her family remembers her as a loving daughter and friend. “Ashlee’s life mattered. And so does justice,” her father, Henry Long, stated in a heartfelt plea for accountability (Christian Post). Her memorial service, held on April 14, 2025, in Richmond, Texas, drew a large crowd, reflecting the profound impact she had on her community (Daily Mail).

Key Facts About Ashlee Long

• Age: 28

• Profession: Real estate agent

• Education: University of Houston, BBA (2019)

• Personal Life: Engaged to Jacob Underwood

• Legacy: Remembered for her vibrant spirit and professional dedication

The Fatal Incident: A Minor Brush Turns Deadly

On April 5, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m., Ashlee Long was walking with her friend William Kistler in Downtown Dallas when a seemingly trivial incident took a deadly turn. As they passed a white Mercedes, Kistler accidentally brushed his hand against the vehicle. This minor contact prompted Kendrick Finch, a passenger in the Mercedes, to exit the car armed with a 9mm handgun, leading to a confrontation.

Surveillance footage, which has been described as graphic and shocking, captured the chaotic moments that followed. Kistler, attempting to defend himself, reached for a .40 caliber pistol from Long’s purse, with Long trying to restrain him. In the ensuing struggle, Finch opened fire, fatally wounding Long and injuring Kistler. Long was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to her injuries, while Kistler survived (CBS Texas).

The incident, occurring in a crowded area, has raised significant concerns about public safety. The fact that a minor physical contact could escalate into a deadly shootout has left many questioning how such tragedies can be prevented.

Timeline of the Incident

Kendrick Finch: The Suspect

Kendrick Finch, 34, has a documented criminal history that includes charges for drug possession and burglary. Following the shooting, Finch fled the scene but contacted police hours later, ultimately turning himself in on April 18, 2025. His surrender came after intense public appeals from Long’s family and Dallas police, who leveraged social media to pressure Finch to come forward (FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth).

Finch claims he acted in self-defense, asserting that he feared for his life when Kistler reached for a weapon. His attorney, Josh Healy, has argued that Kistler’s actions escalated the situation, describing the incident as a rapid, seven-second event driven by Kistler’s aggression (FOX 26 Houston). However, prosecutors counter that Finch was the initial aggressor, pointing to surveillance footage that shows him drawing his gun first, contradicting his self-defense claim.

Finch’s Background

• Age: 34

• Criminal History: Prior charges for drug possession and burglary

• Current Status: In custody, charged with murder

• Defense Claim: Self-defense, citing Kistler’s actions

• Prosecution Argument: Finch was the aggressor, escalating a minor dispute

Legal Proceedings: Bond Denied

Finch is currently charged with murder and is being held in Dallas County jail on a $500,000 bond. On May 7, 2025, a bond reduction hearing was held, where Judge Jennifer Balido reviewed testimony from prosecutors, the defense, the lead detective, and Finch’s mother. The prosecution presented surveillance footage that depicted the shooting, which was described as deeply disturbing to those in the courtroom, including Long’s family (WFAA).

Prosecutors emphasized Finch’s role as the first to draw a weapon, arguing that his actions were disproportionate to the situation. The defense, however, contended that the incident was a rapid response to Kistler’s attempt to arm himself. Judge Balido ultimately denied the bond reduction, citing the strength of the evidence against Finch (FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth).

As of May 12, 2025, there have been no further updates in the case, and Finch remains in custody awaiting trial. The legal process is expected to be closely watched, given the high-profile nature of the incident and the public’s interest in the outcome.

Legal Milestones

Family and Community Reaction: A Cry for Justice

The loss of Ashlee Long has left her family in profound grief. Her mother, Michelle Long, shared, “I’m still in a fog. I just feel like I’m in a daze every day” (Daily Mail). Her stepmother, Holly King, emphasized the randomness of the tragedy, noting, “If she had been somewhere else 5 minutes before or 5 minutes after, it wouldn’t have happened.” Henry Long, Ashlee’s father, has been particularly vocal, stating, “Ashlee’s life mattered. And so does justice,” and calling for Finch to remain behind bars permanently (Christian Post).

The community has rallied around the Long family, demonstrating remarkable solidarity. Social media campaigns were instrumental in pressuring Finch to surrender, with Dallas police and Long’s family using platforms like X to spread the word (FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth). In honor of Long, stickers bearing her image have been placed along Main Street in Dallas, serving as a poignant tribute to her life and a reminder of the community’s commitment to seeking justice (FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth).

Family Statements

• Michelle Long: “I’m still in a fog. I just feel like I’m in a daze every day.”

• Holly King: “If she had been somewhere else 5 minutes before or 5 minutes after, it wouldn’t have happened.”

• Henry Long: “Ashlee’s life mattered. And so does justice.”

Broader Implications: A Wake-Up Call on Gun Violence

The tragic death of Ashlee Long serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence and the urgent need for enhanced public safety measures. The incident, which began with a minor physical contact, escalated into a deadly shootout, highlighting the volatility of situations involving firearms. This case has sparked discussions about how to prevent similar tragedies, including calls for stricter gun laws and better conflict resolution strategies in public spaces.

The power of community action is another key takeaway. The use of social media to apprehend Finch demonstrates how collective efforts can aid law enforcement in solving crimes. The Long family’s advocacy, combined with community support, has kept the case in the public eye, ensuring that Ashlee’s story is not forgotten.

As the legal process continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Ashlee Long. Her family’s strength and determination in the face of such loss are inspiring, and their pursuit of justice is a testament to their love for her. This case also underscores the broader societal need to address the root causes of gun violence and to create safer environments for all.

Societal Impacts

• Gun Violence: Highlights the dangers of firearms in minor disputes.

• Public Safety: Raises questions about safety in urban areas.

• Community Action: Demonstrates the effectiveness of social media in aiding law enforcement.

• Justice Advocacy: Long’s family’s efforts emphasize the importance of accountability.

Conclusion

The story of Ashlee Long and Kendrick Finch is a tragic tale of a life lost and a family’s fight for justice. From a promising young real estate agent to a grieving family demanding accountability, this case has captured national attention. The bizarre circumstances—a minor brush against a Mercedes leading to a deadly shootout—have shocked many, while the legal proceedings against Finch continue to unfold. As the trial approaches, the hope is that truth and justice will prevail, providing some measure of closure to those who loved Ashlee Long. Her legacy lives on through her family’s resilience and the community’s unwavering support, serving as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of holding those responsible accountable.