Two Arrested in Connection with Death of Monroe City Woman

Two arrests were made Saturday in connection with the death of a Monroe City woman.

The body of 32 year old Amanda Johnston was found Saturday morning in Pike County, Missouri.

An investigation by the Missouri Highway Patrol resulted in the arrests Saturday of 29 year old Jerry Asbell, Jr. and 37 year old Jessica Ellsworth, both of Monroe City, in connection with Johnston’s death.

Asbell has been charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action.
Ellsworth is charged with tampering with evidence.

Johnston was reported missing last Tuesday. She was allegedly shot to death by Asbell early Wednesday morning in St. Jude Cemetery in Monroe City.

Ellsworth allegedly helped move Johnston’s body from the cemetery.
Asbell is in the Monroe County Jail without bond. Ellsworth is in the Macon County Jail.