“You Left Me For Dead”: 20/20 Reports on Lauren DeWise Homicide March 14 2025
On Friday, March 14, 2025, ABC’s 20/20 presents a compelling new episode, You Left Me For Dead, reported by veteran journalist John Quiñones. The episode takes an in-depth look at a horrifying crime that took place in Belgrade, Montana, in January 2018. Two women were shot as they slept—one was killed, and the other barely survived. The case would unravel a shocking narrative of domestic violence, survival, and justice.
This special report features never-before-seen police body camera footage, investigative interviews, and a new conversation with survivor Ashley Van Hemert, who recounts her terrifying ordeal and the road to recovery. Law enforcement officers detail their relentless pursuit of justice, exposing a chilling sequence of events that ultimately led to the conviction of the man responsible—Joseph Paul DeWise.
Contents
The Night of Terror: A Brutal Home Invasion
On the night of January 6, 2018, Lauren DeWise and her roommate, Ashley Van Hemert, were asleep in their home on Idaho Street in Belgrade when a gunman entered their residence. Shots rang out in the darkness, killing 22-year-old Lauren instantly. Ashley was left gravely wounded, suffering multiple gunshot wounds, including one to the back of her head.
Despite her injuries, Ashley survived the attack. She lay in agony for hours before help arrived. A harrowing 911 call led police to the scene, where they discovered Lauren dead and Ashley clinging to life. The attack stunned the quiet Montana town and left investigators scrambling for answers.
The Investigation: A Shocking Turn of Events
Law enforcement immediately launched a full-scale investigation into the shooting. The brutality of the attack pointed to a deeply personal motive. Detectives soon uncovered a crucial lead—a teenage eyewitness who provided information that changed the trajectory of the case.
Joseph Paul DeWise, Lauren’s estranged husband, quickly became the prime suspect. Lauren had left Joseph months before, citing ongoing physical abuse. She had sought refuge with Ashley, believing she was finally safe. But investigators determined that Joseph had tracked her down, entered the home, and executed the attack in a premeditated act of revenge.
Trial and Conviction: A Pursuit for Justice
The case went to trial in December 2019. Joseph Paul DeWise maintained his innocence, insisting he had been falsely accused. However, the evidence presented in court painted a damning picture. Prosecutors detailed how DeWise had violated a court order by contacting witnesses, even attempting to manipulate his teenage son into taking the blame for the crime.
After a seven-day trial, a jury found DeWise guilty of deliberate homicide and attempted homicide. In February 2020, District Court Judge Holly Brown sentenced him to 220 years in Montana State Prison without parole, calling the crime “outrageous, aggravated, and intolerable.” The court also ordered DeWise to pay restitution to the victims, totaling over $25,000.
Survival and Strength: Ashley Van Hemert’s Journey
Ashley Van Hemert’s survival is nothing short of extraordinary. Shot four times, including a near-fatal wound to the back of her head, she fought through months of intensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. The attack left her with permanent injuries, forcing her to relearn basic tasks such as walking and using her left hand.
Despite her suffering, Ashley chose forgiveness. In the courtroom, she addressed DeWise directly, telling him that she would not allow hatred to define her life. In an extraordinary moment, she handed him a Bible and read a poem she had written, urging him to seek redemption. Her words resonated beyond the courtroom, embodying resilience in the face of unimaginable trauma.
The Legacy of the Case: A Community Forever Changed
The murder of Lauren DeWise and the near-fatal attack on Ashley Van Hemert sent shockwaves through the Belgrade community. It shed light on the devastating impact of domestic violence and the urgent need for protection and support for survivors.
Ashley has since dedicated herself to advocacy, raising awareness for domestic violence victims and sharing her story to inspire others. Her road to recovery is ongoing, but her determination to live a full life remains unwavering.
The 20/20 episode You Left Me For Dead brings this tragic and powerful story to a national audience, offering a comprehensive look at a crime that tested the limits of justice, survival, and the human spirit. Tune in to ABC on Friday, March 14, at 9:01 PM EDT for this gripping report, which will also be available for streaming on Hulu.
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