SAUGUS, MA — A 40-year-old man was sentenced to at least 24 years in prison on June 9 for a crash that killed 19-year-old Ashley Forward in 2021.
William Leger of Salem fled from police after robbing a 7-Eleven store and struck Forward's vehicle while traveling southbound on Route 107. Forward died at the scene, while Leger sustained non-life-threatening injuries; no other injuries were reported.
According to the Essex County District Attorney's Office, Leger pleaded guilty to manslaughter, unarmed robbery, and receiving a stolen vehicle. A judge sentenced him to 18-20 years for manslaughter, plus another 6-8 years for unarmed robbery, followed by five years of probation.
Authorities said Leger's reckless actions resulted in a tragic loss. Forward was remembered as a compassionate individual who aimed to pursue a nursing career. Her mother, Michelle Luongo, stated, “Ashley's life mattered deeply — not just to her family, her friends, or the community where she gave so much of her time…”
This case remains a stark reminder of the impact of reckless behavior on community lives.