Missing Monroe City Woman Found Dead, Two Monroe City Individuals in Custody

Authorities found 32-year-old Amanda K. Johnston of Monroe City dead in Pike County Saturday morning. Two Monroe City individuals are in custody. The search for Johnston started Wednesday when the Monroe City Police Department responded to a burglary at Johnston’s residence. Highway Patrol Sergeant Eric Brown says Johnston’s associate discovered the burglary.

Brown notes the Monroe County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office filed formal charges Saturday.

Brown details how the arrests of Jerry B. Asbell, Jr. and Jessica M. Ellsworth developed.

Brown says an autopsy will be performed at a later date. The Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control, the Monroe City Police Department, and the Northeast Missouri Major Case Squad continue to investigate. Brown asks anyone with information to call the Monroe City Police Department or the Highway Patrol.