Authorities in Chesterfield County, Virginia, have charged Ross Butler, 56, in connection with the 2021 death of his wife, Ashlee Butler, after investigators determined the circumstances surrounding her death were inconsistent with suicide.
According to Chesterfield County police, Ashlee Butler, 36, was found critically injured inside a home on Alberta Road on December 20, 2021. She was transported to a hospital, where she later died on December 23, 2021. At the time, Ross Butler reportedly told authorities that his wife had died by suicide.
However, investigators say concerns raised by family members and witnesses who knew Ashlee prompted a deeper investigation into the case. Detectives later concluded that evidence at the scene, along with the nature of Ashlee’s injuries, did not support the original claim of suicide.
Police allege that Ross Butler staged the scene in an attempt to make Ashlee’s death appear self-inflicted. Investigators also stated that evidence uncovered during the investigation pointed to a history of domestic violence within the home.
According to authorities, detectives believe Ashlee had returned to the residence to gather belongings as she prepared to leave her husband when the fatal incident occurred. Police now believe she was strangled to death.
A Chesterfield grand jury indicted Ross Butler on May 18, 2026. He was arrested on May 27 in Flagler Beach, Florida, where he is currently being held pending extradition back to Virginia.
The case has deeply affected those who knew Ashlee Butler, as loved ones continue seeking justice following her death. Community members and supporters have expressed sorrow over the tragic circumstances surrounding the case while acknowledging the persistence of investigators and family members who continued pushing for answers.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact Chesterfield County Police or Crime Solvers.