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

17-year-old Lene'a Brown was shot and killed by her 15-year-old ex-boyfriend Eavan Castaner at Buckboard Park in Casper.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A 17-year-old Casper teen, Eavan Castaner, was sentenced to 42-75 years in prison for the second-degree murder of his ex-girlfriend, Lene'a Brown. Castaner shot and killed Brown at Buckboard Park in May 2024 after repeatedly harassing her following their breakup. The Wyoming court upheld the lengthy sentence, finding it was not cruel or unusual punishment under the state's constitution.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of youth violence and the challenges of balancing juvenile sentencing laws with the need for accountability. It also raises broader discussions around domestic violence, access to firearms, and how the justice system responds to such incidents involving minors.

The details

In May 2024, 15-year-old Eavan Castaner shot and killed his 17-year-old ex-girlfriend Lene'a Brown at Buckboard Park in Casper. Castaner had repeatedly harassed Brown with threatening messages after their April breakup, and he brought a handgun from his mother's home to confront Brown at the park. Witnesses reported that Brown approached Castaner aggressively, and he shot her at close range. Castaner was charged with first-degree murder and misdemeanor stalking, but pled guilty to second-degree murder and stalking under a plea agreement.

  • 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.
  • Castaner was sentenced to 42-75 years in prison for second-degree murder, with credit for 330 days served.

The players

Lene'a Brown

A 17-year-old resident of Casper, Wyoming who was shot and killed by her ex-boyfriend Eavan Castaner.

Eavan Castaner

A 15-year-old resident of Casper, Wyoming who shot and killed his ex-girlfriend Lene'a Brown 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 during the appeals process.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex challenges of juvenile sentencing and the need for a balanced approach that holds young offenders accountable while also considering their capacity for rehabilitation and the broader societal factors that contribute to youth violence.