Wyoming Court Upholds Lengthy Sentence for Casper Teen in Second-Degree Murder Case

Eavan Castaner, 15, sentenced to 42-75 years for killing ex-girlfriend Lene'a Brown, 17, in 2024 Casper park shooting

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 15-year-old Casper boy, Eavan Castaner, was sentenced to 42-75 years in prison for the 2024 second-degree murder of his 17-year-old ex-girlfriend Lene'a Brown. Castaner admitted to taking a handgun from his mother's home and shooting Brown at close range in Buckboard Park after repeatedly harassing her following their breakup. The Wyoming court upheld the lengthy sentence, finding it was not cruel or unusual punishment under state law.

Why it matters

This tragic case highlights the ongoing issue of youth violence and the legal consequences for such acts, even when committed by minors. It also raises questions about access to firearms, domestic violence prevention, and whether juvenile sentencing laws are appropriately balancing rehabilitation and public safety.

The details

In May 2024, Eavan Castaner, then 15 years old, shot and killed his 17-year-old ex-girlfriend Lene'a Brown at Buckboard Park in Casper, Wyoming. Castaner had repeatedly harassed and threatened Brown since their April breakup, despite her requests for him to stop. On the night of the incident, Castaner took a handgun from his mother's home and confronted Brown at the park, where witnesses say she approached him aggressively before he shot her at close range.

  • On May 14, 2024, Lene'a Brown was shot and killed at Buckboard Park in Casper.
  • On May 15, 2024, Eavan Castaner was charged with first-degree murder and misdemeanor stalking.
  • Castaner pled guilty to second-degree murder and misdemeanor stalking under a plea agreement.
  • In sentencing, the court ultimately sentenced Castaner to 42-75 years for second-degree murder, with credit for 330 days served.

The players

Eavan Castaner

A 15-year-old Casper resident who was convicted of second-degree murder for killing his ex-girlfriend Lene'a Brown.

Lene'a Brown

A 17-year-old Casper resident who was shot and killed by her ex-boyfriend Eavan Castaner at Buckboard Park.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Eavan Castaner out on bail while he appeals the 42-75 year sentence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex issues surrounding youth violence, access to firearms, and the balance between rehabilitation and public safety in the juvenile justice system. It underscores the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of such tragedies and ensure appropriate legal consequences while also providing support and intervention for at-risk youth.