Friday, January 28, 2011

Van Buren County, MI: Suspect arrested in Van Buren County death investigation

What started as a search for a missing Hartford woman has turned into a death investigation of two bodies and landed a Van Buren County man behind bars.

Police confirm they've found the body of Amy Henslee, 30, along with the body of another woman.

Henslee was last seen on Monday. Police began a thorough search for the mother of two after her husband reported her missing.

During their search, two bodies were found buried at a Bangor Township home on County Road 687. Police say Junior Lee Beebe, 34, lives at that home. Beebe is the cousin of Amy's husband, James.

Police say along with the Henslee's body, the body of Tonya Howarth was found. Howarth is said to be the girlfriend of Beebe.

Both bodies were buried and had to be unearthed by investigators. Officials say Henslee and Howarth died from multiple gunshot wounds.

Police say Henslee left her home voluntarily with Beebe Monday morning. It's believed Henslee and Howarth died shortly after that. There were no missing persons reported filed for Howarth.

Beebe was arrested Thursday night in connection with the killings. He faces two counts of open murder and two counts of possession of a firearm. He is expected to be formally charged and arraigned sometime Friday.

Police say at this time the motive is unknown, but they believe Beebe acted alone and there are no other bodies. Beebe does have a criminal record, although police would not elaborate.

To read all the previously reported stories on this case, click on the links below.

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