COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — First-degree murder suspect Ashton Cole Sensing, 22, was arrested by Putnam County Sheriff's Office deputies Thursday in connection to the death of a 2-year-old child he was babysitting earlier this month.
On December 2, the Putnam County Sheriff's Office responded to 2-year-old Ventura Mora-Francisco, who was unresponsive. The child was taken to the Cookeville Regional Medical Center and later transported to Vanderbilt Medical Children's Hospital for a "major traumatic brain injury."
Detectives then interviewed the mother of the child, Sara Mora, as well as Sensing, who has been identified as her boyfriend.
Sensing told detectives that the child had "fallen into the small air vent on the floor." Upon further discussion, Sensing also admitted to getting upset with the child throughout the day before reportedly throwing the child into a wall and hitting him until Mora-Francisco was unresponsive.
On December 5, the 2-year-old succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.
On December 7, a first-degree murder warrant was obtained for Sensing. Sensing was "on the run" since December 6.
Deputies found Sensing at a Dollar General on W Broad Street in Putnam County after receiving a tip regarding his location. He was positively identified and taken into custody.
Sensing has been taken to the Putnam County Jail on outstanding warrants for first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse. He is being held without bond and his next court date will be Jan. 12, 2024.
Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris thanked the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations, U.S. Marshal Service, Cookeville Police Department, Cheatham County Sheriff’s Office, and all the citizens for their assisting in Sensing's capture and arrest.
It’s a sad reality that area animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations face constant overcrowding -- with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for a forever home. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with those groups – including Critter Cavalry – to find solutions. I’ve fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed or neutered can help control the pet population – and ease the burden.
-Rhori Johnston
