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Virginia Man Sentenced for Killing Two Women, One Pregnant
6 Jul
Summary
- Man convicted of murder for terminating pregnant victim's pregnancy.
- Two women fatally shot in Prince William County residence.
- Sentenced to two life terms without parole plus 74 years.
Edward Jackson Bland, 38, has received a sentence of two life terms without parole for the murders of Leann Harris and Asia Payne. The conviction occurred in December 2025, for events that transpired in April 2024. Harris was four months pregnant at the time of her death.
Bland was found guilty of multiple charges, including aggravated murder for killing more than one person, and the murder of a pregnant victim with the intent to terminate her pregnancy. He was also convicted of carjacking and firearm offenses.
The investigation began on April 2, 2024, when police responded to a carjacking report and discovered the two women shot in the head within a Prince William County residence. Bland confessed to the Shenandoah County Sheriff's Office linking him to the killings prior to his apprehension.
In addition to life sentences, Bland received 74 years with 15 years suspended. Harris' mother expressed a desire for him to never be released, while Payne's mother stated she forgives him.
