Asha Degree: The DNA Breakthrough That Changed Everything

Nine-year-old Asha Degree disappeared from her Shelby, North Carolina home during the early morning hours of February 14, 2000.That same morning, multiple drivers reported seeing a young girl walking alone along Highway 18 in the middle of a storm. One witness said she ran into the woods when he stopped to check on her. Asha was never seen again.More than two decades later, advances in forensic testing have dramatically changed the investigation. DNA and genetic genealogy connected evidence in the case to Russell Bradley Underhill and relatives of the Dedmon family. Investigators searched multiple Dedmon properties in 2024, recovered a vehicle they said resembled one previously sought in the case, and stated in court filings that they believe Asha was killed and her body concealed.Madison breaks down Asha’s final known hours, the buried bookbag and unexplained items found inside it, the DNA evidence, the Dedmon investigation, an alleged admission reported to investigators, newly revealed family communications, and what law enforcement says now.No one has been arrested or charged in connection with Asha’s disappearance or death. The Dedmon family has denied involvement.Anyone with information can contact the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office at 704-484-4756 or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

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