Investigators say a missing persons case unraveled into a homicide involving allegations of shooting, dismemberment, and concealment at a home shared with children.
Fountain, FL – A 32-year-old woman has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder after authorities say she killed her boyfriend, dismembered his body, and buried the remains at their home in Bay County. The arrest came Tuesday following a days-long investigation that began when the victim was reported missing.
Key Points
- Woman charged with first-degree murder in Bay County homicide case
- Victim reported missing after last being seen early Wednesday morning
- Investigators allege body was dismembered and buried on property
According to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began March 14 when the victim’s father reported he had not seen his son since the early morning hours of March 12. The father, who lived on the same property, told deputies he overheard an argument between the couple around 4 a.m.
He reported hearing his son “cry out” and later saw him “washing his face off saying the defendant struck him with a flashlight.” Hours later, the father said he believed he heard gunshots coming from the residence.
Suspicious activity reported at home
Concern grew when the victim failed to show up for work and could not be reached. When deputies first responded, the suspect allegedly told them the victim had left with an unknown friend after the argument.
Days later, the father contacted authorities again, citing unusual behavior. He reported the suspect had lit a fire in a backyard firepit and asked “what to do with ashes and how to dispose of them.” After examining the firepit, he said he found items that appeared to be trigger locks.
He also told investigators that bedding inside the home had been removed, laundry was being done repeatedly, fresh dirt had appeared in the yard, and a firearm was seen on top of a safe.
Witness claims confession to killing
Before re-interviewing the suspect, deputies spoke with a family member who claimed the woman admitted to the killing. According to the affidavit, the witness said the suspect confessed to shooting the victim while he slept, then attempting to dismember the body in a bathtub before burying the remains outside.
Authorities have not released additional details about the recovery of remains or the condition of the scene. The investigation remains ongoing.