Festus, Missouri – A mother in Festus, Missouri, turned herself in to authorities on Tuesday, confessing to the killings of her two children, ages 2 and 9. The tragic incident unfolded as Ashley Parmeley, 36, arrived at the Festus Police Department disheveled and wet, reporting that she had shot her 9-year-old daughter and drowned her 2-year-old son. The children were tragically found at separate locations in Jefferson County and declared dead, according to County Sheriff Dave Marshak.
The 9-year-old girl was identified as Scarlet Parmeley, who was described by her teachers as bubbly, energetic, and trustworthy. Scarlet, who was supposed to start fourth grade in the fall, was known for her caring and compassionate nature. The school district mourned the loss of the young girl, who had a promising future ahead of her.
Scarlet was discovered with a single gunshot wound in Parmeley’s car at the police station. Despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead shortly after being found. Additionally, the 2-year-old boy, identified as Isaac, was found unresponsive in a fountain outside a nearby Holiday Inn property. Tragically, he was also pronounced dead.
Following her confession, Parmeley was charged with one count of second-degree murder in connection with her son’s death. Authorities mentioned that they intended to pursue further charges as they investigated Scarlet’s death. The mother was being held without bond, and it remained unclear if she had legal representation.
As the community grappled with the devastating loss, Scarlet’s father discussed the tragedy in a tribute post, expressing disbelief and love for his daughter. The heartbreaking incident left the entire community in shock, with friends and family mourning the loss of the two innocent children. The authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic deaths as the community mourns and tries to make sense of the heartbreaking event.