Murdered Mom Eliza Fletcher Was Fatally Shot in Back of Head, Tested Positive for Fentanyl: Autopsy

A  Tennessee woman who was found dead earlier this month reportedly suffered a gunshot wound to the back of the head and blunt force trauma.

WREG reported that an autopsy report dated September 24 ruled Fletcher’s death a homicide. Fletcher, 34, vanished while jogging on September 2 and was found deceased outside an abandoned home in Memphis on September 5.

WMC reported that in addition to the gunshot wound, Fletcher had trauma to her right leg. A toxicology report stated that the slain woman also 10 ng/mL of fentanyl in her body, which was in a state of decomposition when it was discovered.

An affidavit stated that Memphis police spotted vehicle tracks in tall grass which led to a vacant residence. Officers combing the area noticed footprints and “an odor of decay” before locating a deceased woman who was ultimately identified as Fletcher next to the steps near a driveway.

Advertisement

Cleotha Abston, 38, was arrested two days before Fletcher’s body was found.  He is charged with first-degree murder and especially aggravated kidnapping for allegedly abducting Fletcher and killing her.

A pair of purple Lululemon running shorts which matched what Fletcher was last seen wearing was found in a nearby trash can. The trash can was located about 100 feet from the residence that Abston had been at with his brother.

Reports indicated that a shell casing was discovered at the crime scene.

Advertisement

For the latest true crime and justice news, subscribe to the ‘Crime Stories with Nancy Grace’ podcast. Listen to the latest episode:

Join Nancy Grace for her new online video series designed to help you protect what you love most — your children.

Advertisement

[Featured image: Eliza Fletcher/Facebook]