The quaint, peaceful community of Festus, Missouri, was recently shaken to its core by a horrific tragedy that claimed the lives of two young children. The unimaginable events have left residents grappling with grief, disbelief, and a profound sense of loss.
This heart-wrenching story began to unfold when a seemingly ordinary Tuesday morning took a dark turn at the Festus Police Department. Ashley Parmley, a 36-year-old woman, walked into the station and calmly informed the clerk that she had killed her two young children.
A woman standing in front of a police station
The chilling confession sent shockwaves through the station as officers rushed to respond. Parmley revealed that her nine-year-old daughter, Scarlet, was in her car. Tragically, officers found Scarlet in the trunk of the vehicle, lifeless. Despite immediate attempts at CPR, it was too late.
Parmley’s confession revealed an even more horrifying truth – her two-year-old son, Isaac, was also dead. She directed authorities to a nearby resort, where Isaac’s body was discovered in a fountain. Investigators believe Parmley drowned her son before driving to the police station.
A Community United in Grief
The devastating news of Scarlet and Isaac’s deaths sent ripples of sorrow through the tight-knit community of Festus. Candlelight vigils were held, overflowing with community members struggling to comprehend the tragedy. Hundreds gathered, seeking solace in shared grief and offering support to the heartbroken families.
Scarlet, described by her third-grade teacher as “kind, bubbly, caring, and spunky,” had a bright future ahead of her. She was known for her love of softball, her infectious laughter, and her talent for bringing people together. Isaac, at just two years old, was already deeply loved by his family. His father expressed the profound pain of losing his “most precious part.”
Seeking Justice for Scarlet and Isaac
Parmley is currently in custody at the Jefferson County Jail, facing charges of first-degree murder and armed criminal action. The charges were upgraded to first-degree murder based on evidence suggesting a period of “cool reflection” during the crimes, a chilling detail that speaks to the gravity of the situation.
Sheriff Dave Marack, deeply affected by the case, assured the community that Jefferson County remains a safe place. He emphasized the isolated nature of this tragic incident and praised the tireless efforts of his team, who are working diligently to uncover the truth behind this horrific act.
The investigation is ongoing, with detectives meticulously piecing together a timeline of events leading up to the murders. They are examining surveillance footage, cellphone data, and interviewing individuals who may have interacted with Parmley in the days prior.
A Long Road to Healing
The grief and trauma inflicted on the families of Scarlet and Isaac are immeasurable. GoFundMe pages established to support the families with funeral costs and other expenses have received an outpouring of support from the community and beyond.
A picture of a candlelight vigil
As the investigation continues, the community of Festus grapples with the unimaginable loss of two innocent lives. While the legal process moves forward, the long and arduous journey of healing has just begun for the families, friends, and a community forever scarred by this horrific tragedy.