Arrests made, remains found in DeKalb missing woman case

Mary Elizabeth Isbell (Hartselle Police Dept.)

DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. (WDEF) — The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office found the remains of a missing woman and made arrests in the case.

Authorities say Mary Elizabeth Isbell went missing in December of 2021. Her husband reported her missing at that time.

A year and a half later, on June 20, 2023, DeKalb County investigators learned of Isbell’s disappearance.

On Wednesday, June 28, a search team found Isbell’s remains at the Little River Canyon National Park, DeKalb law enforcement said.

On Friday, June 30, forensic scientists identified the remains as Mary Elizabeth Isbell’s. According to the sheriff’s office, this would have been her 39th birthday.

Authorities made two arrests in the case, which they believe was a murder.

DeKalb County deputies arrested 45-year-old Lorretta Kay Carr on June 25 on charges of capital murder. Additionally, law enforcement in Pennsylvania arrested Jessie Eden Kelly on charges of capital murder.

Loretta Kay Carr (DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office)

The search team consisted of Fischer Rescue Squad, DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Payne Police and Fire personnel, the district attorney’s investigators and the National Park Service. The Alabama Department of Forensic Science’s Huntsville Laboratory examined and identified the remains.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden made a statement on this incident:

“We would like to thank the Pennsylvania State Police Corry Barracks, Huntsville Search Dog Unit, State of Alabama Aviation Unit, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Fischer Rescue Squad and all the volunteers who helped during this investigation for all their hard work and dedication.”

“Each individual played an important role in bringing Beth home and holding those responsible for this horrific crime accountable. We would ask that you pray for Beth’s family and give them privacy as they navigate through this difficult time. God bless!”