Teen Pleads Guilty in Fatal Stabbing | Toledo News

A Toledo teen, John Jackson Junior, has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in the 2025 stabbing death of 14-year-old Xander Epps, shifting from his initial not guilty plea. The fatal fight on Summit Street also led to the conviction of 40-year-old Ashley Strasbourg, who received a five-year sentence and sex offender registration for inciting the violence and other charges. Jackson’s defense argued self-defense, citing his own 911 call reporting multiple attackers. Xander, remembered as a joyful, athletic teen, left a grieving community as this case underscores the tragic collision of youth, violence, and legal consequences. Jackson’s sentencing is set for August 10th. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/91c86f969ff4f051