Missouri Man Convicted of First-Degree Murder After Emptying Magazine Into His Wife’s Head During Argument

Ryan Alexander, 30, has been convicted by a Henry County jury of first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the death of his wife, Ashton Schouten, 28. The tragic incident occurred on August 27, 2022, following an argument at their home. According to Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, Alexander, who had a controlling nature and suspected his wife of extramarital affairs, returned home after buying beer and found Schouten had packed luggage for herself and their one-year-old twin boys near the front door. He then shot her once in the head and emptied the remainder of the magazine into her head before calling 911 to claim self-defense.

The jury deliberated only a short time before finding Alexander guilty. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. Schouten, a physical therapist since the age of 16, was described as having an intense love for animals and is survived by her twin boys, parents, and seven siblings. Hanaway emphasized the importance of accountability and public safety in securing this conviction, highlighting the tireless work of her team to bring justice to Schouten’s family.