Alvarado, TX – A 26-year-old man is in custody after the discovery of his wife’s body inside their home. Brandon Ashley faces charges of murder and interference with official duty, as reported by the Alvarado Police Department.
Officers responded to a report of domestic violence at the couple’s residence on Magnolia Street last week. Upon arrival, Ashley allegedly threatened to harm himself before being arrested for a minor offense.
His wife, Chelsea Spillers, 33, posted bail for him shortly thereafter. Later, a welfare check on Spillers led to the discovery of her body, believed to be the result of blunt force trauma.
Initially labeled as a “suspicious death,” a warrant for Ashley’s arrest was issued shortly after investigators learned more about the circumstances. An extensive manhunt then took place, spanning several counties.
On Sunday night, multiple calls were made regarding a shirtless man reported on a rural property in Bedias. Ashley was subsequently located at Smiley’s, a local truck stop, where law enforcement arrested him on Monday morning.
After his arrest, police discovered he was wanted for murder in connection with Spillers’ death. The investigation is still ongoing, and no motive has been disclosed.
Spillers was a respected biology and chemistry teacher, and her passing has drawn tributes from the local community. Students at Alvarado High School have honored her with ribbons in her memory.
Ashley remains in custody and is awaiting extradition back to Johnson County.
