A shocking murder investigation in West Virginia has left a family and community devastated after a missing young mother was found dead only days after her own mother reported her disappearance to police. Authorities now say the victim’s mother has been charged in connection with the killing.
West Virginia Woman Charged After Daughter Found Dead
Staci Wind, 50, has been arrested after authorities discovered the remains of her daughter, Ayla Wind, in Greenbrier County, West Virginia.
According to the West Virginia State Police, Ayla had first been reported missing by her mother on May 18.
Less than a week later, investigators located human remains at a water reservoir near Summit Lake.
Police later confirmed the remains belonged to Ayla.
Young Mother Was Last Seen at Gas Station
Ayla, 26, was herself the mother of a young child.
Family members said she was last seen on May 15 after stopping at a gas station for snacks.
According to relatives, Ayla reportedly told loved ones she planned to go to a lake with friends.
Her sibling, Courtney Juan, said Ayla regularly stayed in touch with family and would never normally disappear without contacting her child or partner.
Police Found Burned Remains in Shallow Grave
Investigators said Ayla’s remains were discovered buried in a shallow grave near Summit Lake.
Authorities stated the remains had been burned, and police allegedly found ferns placed over the grave site in an apparent attempt to hide it.
Nearby, investigators reportedly discovered:
- A burn pit containing human bones
- A cellphone believed to belong to Ayla
- A booster seat manual connected to a child seat later found inside the home
Police believe these items may be connected to the investigation.
Search of Home Revealed Disturbing Evidence
After finding the remains, investigators searched the home where Ayla and Staci had reportedly been living together.
According to police, chemical testing inside the residence allegedly revealed large amounts of blood throughout parts of the home.
Investigators also claimed they found:
| Evidence Found | Details |
|---|---|
| Blood stains | Detected in several areas of the house |
| Bloody mattress | Allegedly cut up and hidden |
| Bloody handprints | Found on a wall inside Ayla’s room |
| Ferns | Similar to those covering the grave |
Police also said Staci allegedly told investigators she had gotten rid of Ayla’s mattress before they later discovered the bloodied mattress inside the residence.
Police Continue Searching for Motive
Authorities say the investigation is still ongoing as detectives work to determine a possible motive behind the killing.
Police have not publicly shared additional details about what may have led to Ayla’s death.
Mother Faces Murder Charges
According to online court records, Staci Wind has been charged with:
- First-degree murder
- Second-degree murder
She has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Family Mourning Loss of Young Mother
Ayla’s death has deeply affected her loved ones and community members.
An online fundraiser has reportedly been created to help support funeral expenses and assist her young child, who is now without a mother.
The tragic case has drawn widespread attention across West Virginia because of the disturbing allegations and emotional family circumstances involved.
