Owatonna Murder Trial Ends With Guilty Verdict
Owatonna, MN (KROC-AM News) - A guilty verdict was returned today in an Owatonna murder case.
Members of a Steele County jury found 41-year-old Jason Lee Horner guilty of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter, second-degree manslaughter, and illegal possession of a firearm. A statement from the Steele County Attorney indicates the verdict was returned after about seven hours of deliberations at the end of an 11-day trial.
Medical Examiner: Gunshot Wound Consistent With Homicide
A news release concerning Horner's conviction says the criminal complaint states that Horner admitted he was with Sabrina Lee Schnoor when she was killed in May 2023. The court document says Horner claimed she accidentally shot herself.
The Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner’s Office later determined that the 27-year-old woman died from a single gunshot wound to her mouth that was consistent with homicide and that it was not an accident or suicide. Investigators also did not find a firearm where Schnoor's body was found under an I-35 overpass.
Tracking App Leads Friends to Crime Scene Under I-35
Her body was located by friends who were concerned that she was missing and used a tracking app to find her cell phone location. The criminal complaint says Horner and the victim had been in a previous romantic relationship.
“Today’s verdict held Mr. Horner accountable for his act of domestic violence in the homicide of Sabrina Schnoor,” County Attorney Jarrett stated. “While no outcome can ever heal the heartbreak of losing a loved one, I hope today’s verdict brings some peace and comfort to Sabrina’s family and loved ones.”
Court records indicate Horner has previous convictions for a felony drug offense and second-degree burglary.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 22.
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Gallery Credit: Carly Ross
