Jarrell Hurt, 22, entered an Alford plea on Tuesday, meaning he did not admit guilt, but acknowledged that the state likely has enough evidence to get a conviction.

Investigators said Hurt shot Ashley Blankenship in the back of the head in an Eagle Avenue apartment in September 2009.

Hurt entered the plea to a second-degree murder charge.

Ohio County Assistant Prosecutor Steve Vogrin said he's worked with Blankenship's family through the process.

"Obviously nothing that would have happened in the courtroom would have ever brought Ashley back. But I hope, and from our discussions with them, I hope this gives them a sense of closure in the whole matter," Vogrin said of the family.

Hurt's sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 11.

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Previous Stories: July 30, 2010: Man Competent To Stand Trial For Shooting Wheeling Woman October 20, 2009: Suspect Pleads Not Guilty To Wheeling Shooting Death October 19, 2009: Homicide Suspect Surrenders At Wheeling Police Department October 19, 2009: Police Issue Warrant For Suspect In Wheeling Slaying September 16, 2009: Visitation Hours For Wheeling Homicide Victim September 15, 2009: Brother Of Homicide Victim: She Didn't Deserve This September 14, 2009: Suspect Search In Wheeling Homicide Investigation Continues September 13, 2009: Wheeling Homicide Investigation Under Way