PARIS, Ky. (FOX 56) — A fundraiser has been organized for the family of a Paris homeowner who lost his life Wednesday during a garage burglary.
In the early morning hours of May 13, 60-year-old Lucian “Luke” Ashcraft died following an altercation with a man allegedly attempting to steal from his Ruddles Mill Road home.
Man accused of killing Paris homeowner in garage burglary investigation
“His sudden and heartbreaking loss has left an unimaginable void in the lives of everyone who knew and loved him,” fundraiser organizers wrote.
The alleged burglar was later identified as Timothy Mitchell. He was subsequently arrested and charged with murder, first-degree burglary, possession of burglary tools, and public intoxication under the influence of a controlled substance, excluding alcohol.
According to a GoFundMe, Ashcraft was a family man, an outdoorsman, and a gifted mechanic. He worked at Central Equipment in Lexington, “where he will be deeply missed by his work family.”
“To know Luke was to know kindness, generosity, and unwavering loyalty. He was the type of man who would do anything to help someone in need—whether it was family, friends, coworkers, customers, or even a complete stranger. He carried himself with a calm, even-keeled spirit and a warm smile that made everyone around him feel welcome. There truly are not enough words to describe the impact he had on so many lives,” the GoFundMe reads.
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He leaves behind his wife, his children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, friends, and loved ones, who are devastated by this tragic loss.”
“The pain of losing Luke so suddenly is difficult to put into words. His family is now facing not only overwhelming grief but also the financial burdens that come with an unexpected tragedy,” organizers wrote. “This fundraiser was created to help support Jamie and the Ashcraft family during this incredibly difficult time. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will help provide comfort and support in the days and months ahead.”
Click here for more information on how to donate.
Mitchell was lodged in the Bourbon County Regional Jail on a $5 million cash bond. He’s due in court for a preliminary hearing on May 20.
Ashcraft’s cause of death has yet to be released.
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