FLAGLER COUNTY, FL — Ross Butler, 56, has been arrested in Florida for the 2021 strangulation death of his wife, 36-year-old Ashlee Butler, whose death was initially reported as a suicide, authorities said.
Crime and Investigation
On December 20, 2021, Ashlee Butler’s body was found at the couple’s home on Alberta Road in Chesterfield, Virginia. Detectives later determined the scene had been staged and that her injuries were inconsistent with suicide. Authorities believe Ashlee was strangled after returning home to pack belongings in preparation to leave her husband.
Family and witnesses raised concerns about the circumstances of her death, and police noted a history of domestic violence in the home.
Arrest and Extradition
Ross Butler had been living in Florida for several years. He requested a fundraiser for “Ashlee’s cremation and expenses,” according to a paused GoFundMe. Law enforcement located him at a Florida hospital and arrested him after his release.
Butler is currently jailed in Flagler County without bond and is awaiting extradition to Virginia.
Law Enforcement Statement
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly praised the cooperation between multiple law enforcement agencies, stating, “This guy thought he could get away with murder and live the rest of his life at the beach… he’s hiding out no longer and will soon be headed back to Virginia to face justice.”
