Sierra Kathleen Henderson Ashburn, a 28-year-old woman from Mount Airy, North Carolina, was tragically found dead on May 6, 2020. Her boyfriend, Brandon Thomas Shaw, reported her missing early that morning. Shaw, 35, informed the Surry County Sheriff's Office that Ashburn had vanished, leading deputies to their residence on Woodville Church Road. Upon arrival, detectives spoke with Shaw, who provided details that ultimately led them to discover Ashburn's body buried on the property.
Authorities believe that Ashburn's death resulted from an apparent domestic argument between her and Shaw. The investigation revealed that the couple had been residing together, and the argument escalated to a fatal confrontation. Shaw was subsequently arrested and charged with first-degree murder. He is currently being held without bond in the Surry County Detention Center.
The case has garnered significant attention, with friends and family expressing their shock and grief over Ashburn's untimely death. Cari Williams, a close friend, described Ashburn as an amazing, giving, and loving person who was like one of her own children. Another friend, Micah Pridgen, shared that Ashburn was the friendliest person one could ever meet and expressed deep sorrow for her young son, who now has to grow up without a mother.
The investigation into Ashburn's death remains ongoing, with continuous law enforcement presence at the scene. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has been called in to assist with processing the crime scene. As of now, no additional information has been released, and it is unclear if Shaw has an attorney or has appeared before a judge to enter a plea.
