Oklahoma Panhandle Shooting: 5 suspects arrested Paul Grice, 31; Tad Bert Cullum, 43; Tifany Machel Adams, 54; Cole Earl Twombly, 50, and Cora Twombly, 44, in the murder of 27-year-old Veronica Butler and 39-year-old Jilian Kelley, in Oklahoma Panhandle Shooting
In a significant development in the case of the tragic murders of Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley, a fifth suspect has been apprehended in connection with the heinous crime. Paul Grice, 31, joins four other individuals already in custody, adding another layer of complexity to an already deeply distressing case.
The arrest of Grice on April 24 follows intense scrutiny and investigation into the disappearances of Butler and Kelley, who went missing on March 30. Their bodies were tragically discovered on April 15, confirming fears of foul play and prompting a swift and determined response from law enforcement.
Court records reveal that Grice has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit murder in the first degree with deliberate intent. According to an arrest affidavit, Grice has admitted to his involvement in the killings of Butler and Kelley, as well as their subsequent burial.
Grice’s arrest comes just 11 days after the apprehension of four other suspects linked to the murders: Tad Bert Cullum, 43; Tifany Machel Adams, 54; Cole Earl Twombly, 50; and Cora Twombly, 44. All four individuals remain in custody as the investigation continues to unfold.
The circumstances surrounding the murders of Butler and Kelley are deeply troubling and complex. Court documents suggest that Butler was embroiled in a contentious custody battle with Adams over custody of her children. Butler’s visits with her children were typically supervised, with Kelley accompanying her as a supervisor.
Tragically, Butler and Kelley were on their way to pick up Butler’s children for a birthday party in Kansas when they went missing. Their vehicle was discovered abandoned on a rural highway near the Oklahoma-Kansas state line, with disturbing evidence of foul play. Butler’s family made the harrowing discovery, finding her vehicle stained with blood and Butler’s glasses lying on the road alongside a broken hammer. Additionally, a pistol magazine was found in Kelley’s purse, though no firearm was located at the scene.
The details emerging from the investigation paint a chilling picture of the events leading up to the murders of Butler and Kelley. As authorities continue to piece together the evidence and gather information, the arrest of Paul Grice represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) has been instrumental in coordinating efforts with local law enforcement agencies to bring those responsible to justice. Their tireless dedication and commitment to “Protecting Oklahoma one Partnership at a time” underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in combating crime and ensuring the safety of communities.
As the investigation into the murders of Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley progresses, authorities urge anyone with information relevant to the case to come forward and assist in bringing closure to the victims’ families. With the support of the community and law enforcement partners, they remain steadfast in their pursuit of truth and justice.