A missing Missouri woman was found dead, and her boyfriend was charged with her murder. Aaron Malone, 23, was charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Aspen Lewis, 24, after he reported her missing to authorities.
According to court records, Malone contacted Barry County Sheriff’s deputies on Monday, November 25, to report Lewis’ possible abduction. Investigators responded to the residence and found a large blood stain in the roadway behind Malone’s truck, along with pieces of jewelry.
Lewis was last seen at her Exeter residence early on the morning of November 25. Malone provided officers with a verbal and written statement about Lewis’ disappearance, but authorities said there were inconsistencies in his statement, leading them to begin a criminal investigation.
Surveillance video showed Malone’s vehicle arriving at Lewis’ residence just before midnight on Sunday, November 24, and then leaving around 1:30 Monday morning. He returned to the residence around 4 a.m.
Before Malone arrived back at Lewis’ residence, he called 911. The next day, authorities met with Malone, who took them to where Lewis’ body was located. Her body was found in a wooded area, covered with leaves and sticks, with extensive head trauma.
Malone admitted to an altercation taking place and disposing of Lewis’ body. He was arraigned in Barry County Court and pleaded not guilty on Monday morning. He is being held without bond in the Stone County jail.
Lewis leaves behind a young son and was described as a “very spiritual person” who loved animals and being outdoors.