In a shocking case that has gripped the state of Mississippi, teenager Carly Gregg has been found guilty of first-degree murder, attempted murder, and tampering with evidence following a week-long trial.
The events leading to this conviction have stunned the Rankin County community, with the tragedy centering on the death of Ashley Smylie, a 40-year-old math teacher at Northwest Rankin High School according to WAPT.
The crime occurred in March when Gregg, then just 14 years old, allegedly fired three rounds at her mother—two of which struck Smylie in the face, resulting in her death. A third shot was aimed at Gregg’s stepfather, Heath Smylie, who survived the attack.
Throughout the trial, now-15-year-old Gregg maintained a tearful and distraught demeanor, especially when presented with the police discovery video showing the moment her mother’s body was found. The emotional weight of the case was palpable, particularly during Heath Smylie’s testimony.
#BREAKING: After 1 hour and 57 minutes of deliberation, the jury found 15-year-old #CarlyGregg GUILTY on all counts.
Now, they will decide if she's sentenced to life in prison with or without parole.#CourtTV What do YOU think?
WATCH LIVE – https://t.co/cz4ixlCwQp pic.twitter.com/k3CQEYR0Wd— Court TV (@CourtTV) September 20, 2024
He described a seemingly close bond between Gregg and her mother, stating, “They loved each other so much. Everything she did, she planned around Carly.” His testimony painted a picture of a family that, despite some struggles, appeared united.
However, beneath this surface closeness, prosecutors uncovered a motive tied to a personal and troubling discovery. Gregg’s mother had reportedly found a stash of vape pens hidden in her daughter’s room, which allegedly became the trigger for the fatal confrontation. Prosecutors argued that the discovery of these vape pens ignited a fury in the teenager, leading to the violent outcome.
Mental health also played a role in the trial’s narrative. It was revealed that Gregg had been battling bouts of depression and had been seeing a therapist prior to the incident. While some viewed this as a possible factor in her actions, the court ultimately determined her responsibility for the crime, convicting her of all charges.
Gregg, who was tried as an adult, now faces the possibility of two life sentences. She had previously rejected a plea deal that would have sentenced her to 40 years in prison—a decision that has only heightened the stakes in her case.
This tragic story highlights not only the devastating consequences of unchecked anger but also raises questions about the emotional struggles young people face. As Gregg awaits sentencing, the Rankin County community continues to process the loss of a beloved teacher and the chilling crime committed by a teenager many knew as a typical young girl.