Asha Degree vanished in North Carolina storm on Valentine’s Day 2000

Asha Degree, a nine-year-old girl, disappeared on February 14, 2000, while walking along Highway 18 in North Carolina. Her parents reported her missing the same day, and despite extensive searches, she was never found. Seventeen months later, her backpack and clothing were discovered several miles from where she vanished. Recently, police have indicated that they believe she was a victim of homicide, with her body concealed. Investigators executed search warrants at multiple properties linked to a family suspected of involvement in her disappearance. The Dedmon family, particularly Roy Dedmon, who is in his 80s, has come under scrutiny due to the proximity of his home to the site of Asha's last sighting. DNA samples from Asha's belongings have been matched to AnnaLee Dedmon Ramirez, who was 13 at the time of Asha's disappearance. This connection has raised new questions about the circumstances surrounding Asha's case. Additionally, Russell Underhill, a deceased patient of Roy Dedmon's facilities, has also been linked through DNA, although he is not considered a suspect. Witnesses reported seeing Asha being pulled into a green vehicle, adding to the mystery of her case. The investigation has reignited public interest and concern, as law enforcement continues to piece together the events leading to her disappearance. The Dedmon family's attorney has urged the community to refrain from jumping to conclusions and to allow law enforcement to conduct their investigation. As the case unfolds, the hope remains that new evidence will lead to answers for Asha's family and the community, who have long sought closure regarding her tragic fate.