Richelle “Chelle” Lowry, 42, was found dead in her Bennett, Colorado, home in October 2023 from a close-range gunshot wound to the head. Initially questioned as suicide and later “undetermined,” her death was ruled homicide after forensic re-analysis, digital evidence, and witness statements. Her estranged husband, Ronald Lowry, 52, was indicted on Feb. 27, 2026, for first-degree murder after over two years of investigation.
Key Evidence and Investigation
- Initial Scene: Phone submerged in water; Chelle missed work and wasn’t responding. Autopsy revealed suspicious bruising, forehead hematoma, and male DNA (initially inconclusive due to poor sample quality).
- Homicide Determination: Re-reviewed by a doctor; death certificate updated. Security footage showed a man resembling Ronald near her home. He allegedly stalked her, recorded her with a boyfriend, driven by jealousy post-separation.
- Witness Accounts: Friends/family said Chelle insisted she’d never suicide and blamed Ronald if anything happened. She was days from finalizing divorce.
- Breakthrough: Extensive forensic, digital, and testimonial review by Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office.
Charges Against Ronald Lowry
- First-degree murder.
- Two counts of stalking.
- Tampering with physical evidence.
- Violent crime causing serious bodily injury or death.
- Violent crime with a deadly weapon.
All charged as domestic violence acts. He’s booked in Morgan County Jail; grand jury indicted him.
Official Statements
18th Judicial District Attorney Amy Padden called it a key justice step. Assistant DA Ryan Brackley praised investigators’ perseverance in examining all evidence.
Family, like stepbrother Dave Norman, seeks lifelong prison. Details from 18th DA press release, KUSA, and CBS News Colorado. Case ongoing—monitor local outlets for trial updates. Any specific part you’d like expanded, like Colorado domestic violence laws?
