Waynesboro man convicted of second-degree murder shooting friend

A jury in Waynesboro found 24-year-old Jacob Sipe guilty of second-degree murder in the shooting death of his friend, 33-year-old Trevor Hill, last summer. The jury deliberated for nearly four hours before reaching the verdict in Waynesboro Circuit Court. Sipe was also convicted on multiple charges including the use of a firearm during a felony and shooting into an occupied home. The incident occurred on July 23, 2024, while both men were reportedly under the influence of alcohol and drugs. During the trial, Sipe claimed self-defense, stating he was attacked by Hill. However, evidence revealed he fired six shots, hitting Hill five times. The prosecutor described Hill's death as execution-style, occurring in front of Hill’s young child. Sipe's defense argued that he faced a brutal assault and had no intention of killing Hill. They plan to appeal the verdict. Following the guilty verdict, Sipe faces a potential prison sentence of up to 54 years, with sentencing scheduled for June 27.