A 27-year-old Kansas woman, Veronica Butler, tragically lost her life in a violent attack earlier this year, alongside 39-year-old Jilian Kelley. Their bodies were discovered buried in a freezer in Texas County, Oklahoma.
Medical Report Details Veronica Butler’s Final Moments
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According to the Oklahoma City Chief Medical Examiner’s report, Butler suffered 30 sharp-force injuries, including nine stab wounds. Ten of these wounds indicate she tried to defend herself by grabbing the knife blade. Most injuries were concentrated on her head and neck.
Disappearance and Discovery
In late March, Butler and Kelley traveled from Hugoton, Kansas, intending to pick up Butler’s children. The women went missing, and their abandoned vehicle was later found near the Kansas-Oklahoma border. Weeks after their disappearance, their bodies were uncovered in a remote area of Oklahoma.
Alleged Conspirators and Charges
Five individuals have been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, kidnapping, and conspiracy in connection with the case:
- Paul Grice, 31: Allegedly stabbed Butler, injured himself during the attack, and helped bury the victims. Evidence, including Butler’s DNA, was found on his discarded clothing at the burial site.
- Tad Cullum, 43: Allegedly killed Kelley, transported both bodies, and buried them in a freezer inside a pre-dug hole. Accessories linked to the murder weapon were recovered from his home.
- Cole and Cora Twombly: Allegedly served as lookouts and sought an alibi from their daughter.
- Tifany Machel Adams, 50: Accused of purchasing burner phones, stun devices, and yellow straps used in the crime.
Chilling Details from the Medical Report
The medical report concluded that Butler likely died quickly due to severe injuries to her jugular veins, leading to rapid blood loss. Her body appeared undisturbed in the freezer where she and Kelley were buried.
This case highlights the horrifying extent of violence and a meticulously planned crime that led to charges against all involved parties.