Shelby, North Carolina – Newly released documents on Monday have revealed significant developments in the case of Asha Degree, the 9-year-old girl who disappeared from Cleveland County in February 2000. According to search warrants, DNA evidence has linked the long-unsolved case to Russell Underhill and AnnaLee Dedmon Ramirez, both connected to the Dedmon family of Shelby, North Carolina.
Authorities have confirmed that Asha Degree’s disappearance is now being investigated as a homicide. Despite extensive searches of multiple properties owned by the Dedmon family, including locations in Shelby and Vale, no human remains have been found so far. Investigators, however, remain focused on the evidence linking the crime to Underhill and Dedmon Ramirez.
Asha Degree was last seen on the night of February 14, 2000. Over a year later, her backpack was discovered more than 30 kilometers from where she was last seen, wrapped in plastic garbage bags. DNA from items inside the backpack connected Degree to Russell Underhill and AnnaLee Dedmon Ramirez. At the time of Degree’s disappearance, Dedmon Ramirez was only 13 years old, and further evidence suggests the involvement of her family members.
The investigation has not yet resulted in any arrests, but authorities have stated that they believe the Dedmon family played a crucial role in the crime’s concealment.
On Facebook, users expressed shock and sadness about the new developments in the case:
Rachel Marie wrote, “This is the one story, I will never forget… heard it first on crime junkies and ever since, I check back for updates… Hoping she’d be alive♡ This story will be with me forever.”
Alicia Bostick commented, “All these years later… they should have just kept quiet!”
Netta Maqq shared her sympathy, stating, “Wow! 24 years! So sorry to hear this update…”
The community continues to follow the case closely, hoping for justice for Asha Degree and answers that have been long awaited for over two decades. Investigators remain committed to uncovering the truth behind her disappearance and bringing closure to her family.