SAUGUS, MA – A Massachusetts man was sentenced to 24 years in prison on June 9, 2026, for a crash that killed a teenager.
William Leger, 40, of Salem, crashed into 19-year-old Ashley Forward's vehicle after fleeing from police following a robbery at a 7-Eleven on Lincoln Avenue. The crash occurred on Route 107 northbound, where Forward died at the scene.
Leger suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized. No additional injuries were reported. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter, unarmed robbery, and receiving a stolen vehicle.
According to the Essex County District Attorney's Office, a judge sentenced Leger to 18-20 years for manslaughter, an additional six to eight years for unarmed robbery, and five years of probation post-release.
Authorities confirmed that the investigation is concluded, and no further information is being sought about the incident.