Autopsy results show a man who led authorities on a two-week manhunt through the wilderness near Lake Isabella died of multiple gunshot wounds in a confrontation with deputies.
Kern County coroner’s officials said Benjamin Peter Ashley’s death was a homicide from multiple gunshot wounds.
The 34-year-old homeless man was killed about 5:30 p.m. Saturday at a mini-mart on U.S. 395. Kern County sheriff’s deputies received a tip from the sister of the store’s clerk, who recognized Ashley’s distinctive green eyes. He bought food and other items before heading out.
When deputies arrived, they found Ashley and ordered him to show his hands, Sheriff Donny Youngblood said.