Toledo, OH – The city of Toledo is in mourning following the heartbreaking death of 37-year-old Ashley Morris Fonseca, whose life was tragically cut short in a domestic violence incident that has sent shockwaves through the community. The devastating attack occurred just hours after Ashley made a desperate plea for help on social media, describing years of abuse and fear.
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On the evening of June 25, 2025, Ashley was shot multiple times by her boyfriend, Lawrence Moore, 46, in their shared apartment at Boulder Creek Apartments on South Byrne Road. The horrific scene was reported by Ashley’s teenage son, who courageously dialed 9-1-1 during the violent episode. When Toledo Police arrived, they discovered Moore deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, his death ruled a suicide by the Lucas County Coroner’s Office. Ashley, found in critical condition, was rushed to the University of Toledo Medical Center, where she passed away the following evening at 7:47 p.m. on June 26.
Ashley’s death has been officially classified as a homicide, another life taken in what experts are calling a preventable tragedy. Her final Facebook post—made just hours before the shooting—has gone viral, painting a chilling picture of the abuse she endured, including threats with a firearm. The post now stands as both a memorial and a haunting call for change.
In a powerful act of love and generosity, Ashley’s family chose to donate her organs, giving life to others even in their darkest hour. Those who knew Ashley describe her as compassionate, courageous, and full of empathy—traits that remained constant despite the trauma she faced throughout her life.
Ashley’s journey of survival began decades earlier. As a child, she was at the center of one of Toledo’s most horrific cases of domestic violence—the infamous “Trail of Terror” in the 1990s, in which her mother, Vivian Morris, was murdered by a man who had become dangerously obsessed. Ashley survived that ordeal and, despite such harrowing beginnings, went on to raise her own children and build a life grounded in love and resilience.
Now, her death has reignited urgent conversations about the state’s response to domestic violence. Advocates, including those from the Ohio Domestic Violence Network (ODVN), are calling for better protections and quicker responses when victims speak out. According to ODVN, domestic violence costs the state over $1.2 billion annually, with too many victims falling through systemic cracks. In 2023 alone, 112 domestic violence-related deaths were recorded in Ohio, many involving individuals who had already reached out for help.
“This should never have happened,” said Karen Diaz, a former neighbor and survivor of abuse. “Ashley told the world she was in danger, and still, she was left alone. Her voice must not be forgotten.”
Vigils are now being organized across Toledo, not only to honor Ashley’s life, but to demand stronger resources for survivors—ranging from emergency shelter access and trauma counseling to stricter enforcement of protective orders. Advocacy groups are also pushing for $20 million in state funding to enhance domestic violence prevention and survivor services across Ohio.
Ashley leaves behind children, a heartbroken family, and a community now grappling with another life lost too soon. Yet, in the midst of this tragedy, her legacy of bravery and compassion shines. Her final act of generosity through organ donation and her voice—now echoing far beyond Toledo—continue to inspire action and raise awareness.
If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788. In Ohio, reach out to the Ohio Domestic Violence Network at 1-800-934-9840. You are not alone.
Rest in peace, Ashley Morris Fonseca. Your life mattered. Your voice lives on.