A disturbing case of murder and dismemberment has shocked Florida after a woman allegedly killed her boyfriend, dismembered his body, and buried the remains in their yard. The victim’s father, who lived on the same property, helped uncover the crime, leading to the woman’s arrest.
Woman Charged with First-Degree Murder in Dismemberment Case
Ashley Otero Averett, 32, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder for the death of her 38-year-old boyfriend, Joseph Martin Eiler. The crime took place at the home they shared with two young children in Fountain, Florida.
Events Leading Up to the Discovery
The investigation began on March 14 when Eiler’s father reported his son missing. According to the father:
- He overheard an argument between the couple on the morning of March 12, followed by Eiler crying out and later washing his face, claiming Averett hit him with a flashlight.
- The father later heard what he thought were gunshots at the residence.
- When Eiler didn’t show up for work for two days, the father grew concerned.
The father also noticed unusual behavior from Averett, including lighting a fire in the firepit and asking about disposing of ashes. When he sifted through the ashes, he found what appeared to be trigger locks, raising further suspicion.
Discovery of Evidence
Upon revisiting the home, authorities found the following:
- Fresh dirt had been placed in the yard
- Bedding had been removed
- Laundry was being done repeatedly
- A firearm was visible on top of a safe
Witnesses, including family members, later revealed Averett’s alleged confession. She reportedly admitted to shooting Eiler while he was asleep, attempting to dismember his body, and burying the remains in the yard.
Averett’s Confession
During questioning by detectives, Averett confessed to the crime:
- She shot Eiler twice in the back with a .380 caliber pistol
- Afterward, she tried to dismember his body using a hatchet and knife
- She then placed the remains in a gray tote and buried them in different parts of the yard
- Averett also confessed to cleaning the crime scene with supplies she bought from multiple stores
Authorities executed a search warrant at the property, where they found human remains buried in a freshly disturbed area, consistent with Averett’s description. They also discovered that she had spray-painted “Joe I love you” on a storage box near the burial site.
Family Involvement
Averett’s family played a key role in alerting authorities and attempting to protect the children in the home. The family had tried to intervene, fearing for the safety of the children, but they were not attempting to help Averett escape.
Current Status
Averett is currently held in Bay County Jail without bond. It is unclear when she will return to court for further proceedings.
