A New Hampshire man has been sentenced to decades in prison after fatally shooting a teenager he saw with his ex-girlfriend in a Walmart parking lot.
Teen Killed in Walmart Parking Lot
According to prosecutors, 18-year-old Thomas Pickford went to a Walmart in Keene on June 25, 2025, to return items to his ex-girlfriend. When he arrived, he saw her sitting in a truck with 17-year-old Christian Walker.
As Pickford drove away, he fired a gun from his vehicle, striking Walker in the abdomen.
Victim Died at Hospital
Emergency responders rushed Walker to a hospital, but he later died from his injuries. An autopsy ruled his death a homicide caused by a gunshot wound.
Investigators identified Pickford as the suspect within hours and arrested him at his home.
Guilty Plea and Sentence
Pickford pleaded guilty to reckless second-degree murder on Wednesday.
He was sentenced to 27 years to life in prison, with the possibility of reducing the minimum term by up to four years if he completes educational, behavioral, and rehabilitation programs while incarcerated.
Prosecutors said Pickford admitted firing the gun but claimed he did not intend to hit anyone.
