In the summer of 2015, a grim discovery was made in a wooded area in Leeds, Alabama, bringing a tragic end to the search for a missing young man. The body of 20-year-old Anthony Shane Gibson was found on July 5, 2015, after he had been missing for three days. Gibson, who was from Harpersville, had been shot before his body was burned beyond recognition.
The investigation into the homicide quickly centered on his ex-girlfriend, Candie Zito, and her cousin, Corey Zito.
Authorities pieced together a disturbing narrative suggesting that Gibson was lured to his death. His last known communication was with Zito on the night he disappeared, July 2, 2015. After his body was found, a BOLO alert was issued for Candie Zito as a person of interest.
The search for the cousins culminated in a high-speed chase that ended when their vehicle crashed. Inside the car, investigators found evidence linking them to the crime. Both Candie and Corey Zito sustained serious injuries in the crash, with Corey remaining in a coma for several months. Following their recovery, the two were charged with the murder of Anthony Shane Gibson.
In February 2016, both Candie Zito and Corey Zito entered a plea deal, admitting to their roles in Gibson's murder. They were each sentenced to 20 years in prison for the crime. Candie Zito later gave an account to a cellmate, claiming the motive was robbery and that she hoped Corey would not survive his injuries to contradict her version of events. Both are currently serving their sentences in Alabama correctional facilities.
