FLORENCE, AL — A man has been charged with the murder of Autumn Paige Strickland, a missing Alabama woman whose remains were discovered in a burn barrel on a property in Lauderdale County. Authorities believe Strickland was intentionally struck by a vehicle before her death.
Discovery of Human Remains
The Florence Police Department confirmed on Tuesday that human remains found at a local home are believed to be Strickland, 38, who was reported missing over the weekend. The remains will be sent to a forensics lab for further analysis and identification, according to Florence Police Captain Jason Fort.
Details of the Incident
Strickland was last seen on May 16, with authorities noting she may have been living with a condition that impairs her judgment. Police say Logan Rogers, 28, of Florence, is the primary suspect in her death. Initially arrested on a charge of attempted murder, Rogers’ charge was upgraded to murder after Strickland’s remains were found.
According to court documents obtained by Waff-tv, Rogers allegedly struck Strickland with his 2012 Kia Soul on May 17. He reportedly circled back around after the initial collision and struck her again with the car. Thirty minutes later, Rogers returned to the scene in a pickup truck and took Strickland’s body.
The Alleged Attempt to Conceal the Crime
Authorities believe Rogers attempted to burn Strickland’s body in a burn barrel on his property. The remains were later discovered, leading to his arrest on charges of murder. Rogers is being held in the Lauderdale County jail without bail, awaiting a court hearing.
The Investigation Continues
The community is in shock as the investigation continues. Strickland’s tragic death has left many unanswered questions, and local authorities are working diligently to ensure justice is served.
Source Attribution
- Waff-tv, Florence Police Department
