In March of 2023, the life of 36-year-old Ebony Owens was tragically cut short in Edwards, Mississippi. Her family grew concerned and reported her missing on March 15, 2023, after she failed to show up for her job. The investigation into her disappearance quickly took a grim turn when deputies discovered her burned 2015 Acura TLX near her home. This discovery led the Hinds County Sheriff's Office to suspect foul play, shifting their focus from a missing person case to a potential homicide.
Suspicion soon fell upon her husband, 36-year-old Michael Owens. Evidence gathered from the couple's residence and information provided by Michael himself led investigators to believe that Ebony had been shot at least once. He was subsequently arrested and charged with her murder and arson. While in custody, Michael Owens faced additional charges for sexual battery and sexual assault of a minor. A multi-agency search for Ebony's body was launched, focusing on the Big Black River. More than a week after she was reported missing, her body was recovered from the river.
During his trial, Michael Owens took the stand and admitted to shooting his wife. He claimed he did so after finding her in bed with another man, stating that she made him 'snap'. He alleged that Ebony had reached for a gun first, and he shot her in the head in a moment of anger and fear for his life. Following the shooting, he wrapped her body in a blanket, drove to a bridge, and discarded her remains in the river below.
Despite his claims of self-defense, a Hinds County jury rejected his argument. In September 2025, Michael Owens was convicted of first-degree murder and third-degree arson. He was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his wife, bringing a conclusion to the tragic case that began with a daughter, mother, and friend's unexpected absence.
