Authorities in Iowa have arrested a woman nearly 15 years after a realtor was fatally shot while showing a model home. Kristin Ramsey, 53, was taken into custody in connection with the 2011 killing of 27-year-old Ashley Okland.
The Murder of Ashley Okland
On April 8, 2011, Ashley Okland was showing a model townhome in West Des Moines when she was tragically shot twice. An employee of Rottlund Homes, the company behind the development, heard a commotion inside the model home and went to check on the situation. Inside, the employee found Okland lying on the floor and immediately called 911. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Okland died from her injuries.
Break in the Case After 15 Years
Nearly 15 years after Okland’s death, West Des Moines Police made a significant breakthrough in the case. On March 18, 2026, authorities announced the arrest of Kristin Ramsey, who had worked as a sales manager for Rottlund Homes at the time of the murder. Ramsey, who goes by “Krissy Ramsey” on LinkedIn, has been charged with first-degree murder. Police have not released information about a potential motive or whether the suspect and victim knew each other.
Emotional Response from Family
At a press conference on March 18, members of Okland’s family shared their emotional reactions to the arrest. “That Friday afternoon Ashley was taken from us seems so long ago,” said Ashley’s sister, Brittany Bruce. “We had lost our hopes in finding answers and having any justice for Ashley. It was really difficult to accept the case had gone cold.”
Josh Okland, Ashley’s brother, also spoke at the conference, saying, “Today is the day my family has thought about very often in the last 14 years.”
The Investigation Continues
West Des Moines Police Assistant Chief Jody Hayes expressed that while the arrest was a significant step, the investigation is far from over. “Ashley’s story has kept many of us awake at night revisiting the details over and over in our minds,” he said. “Our work is not done yet.”
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Kristin Ramsey has been charged with first-degree murder. As of now, her plea and attorney information are not available. Ramsey is currently in custody as the investigation into the case continues.
