A Kentucky murder case involving the death of a mother of three is moving toward trial nearly eight years after her body was discovered on the side of a road. Prosecutors say the victim was kidnapped, killed, hidden under a trailer, and later dumped after an alleged failed attempt to throw her body from a bridge. The disturbing case has deeply affected the victim’s family, who continue waiting for justice.
Kentucky Man Accused in Mother’s Murder Headed to Trial
Forty-two-year-old Ryan “Todd” Crawley of Sadieville, Kentucky, is scheduled to stand trial on May 17, 2027.
According to court records, Crawley faces charges including:
- Murder
- Kidnapping
- Tampering with physical evidence
The charges are connected to the 2019 death of 39-year-old April Arnett of Lexington, Kentucky.
Suspect Previously Admitted to Some Charges
Court records show Crawley previously pleaded guilty to:
- Abuse of a corpse
- Tampering with physical evidence
However, he has pleaded not guilty to the more serious charges of murder and kidnapping.
Kentucky prosecutors now plan to present the full case before a jury next year.
Mother of Three Found Dead on Roadside
The investigation began on August 17, 2019, when authorities discovered the body of an unidentified woman along Old Lexington Road in Madison County.
Kentucky State Police later confirmed the victim was April Arnett.
Investigators believe Arnett was killed several days earlier, on August 13, 2019.
Her death shocked family members and local residents.
Prosecutors Describe Chilling Allegations
According to the indictment, Crawley allegedly wrapped Arnett’s body in a tarp after her death.
Prosecutors claim he then hid her remains underneath his trailer for a period of time.
Investigators also allege cinder blocks were attached to the tarp.
According to court documents, Crawley later travelled with his cousin to Madison County while transporting the body.
Bridge Disposal Attempt Allegedly Failed
Prosecutors say Crawley and his cousin attempted to dispose of Arnett’s body by throwing it from Old Clays Ferry Bridge.
However, according to investigators, the body became stuck on a support wire before falling.
Court documents claim the suspects then pulled the body back into their vehicle.
Authorities allege they later dumped Arnett’s remains on the side of Old Lexington Road, where she was eventually found.
Multiple Other Suspects Indicted
Crawley is not the only person charged in the case.
Five other people were also indicted in connection with the investigation.
Authorities allege some of the suspects helped kidnap Arnett, while others are accused of helping remove or destroy evidence.
According to court records, the additional defendants include:
| Name | Alleged Involvement |
|---|---|
| Ronald “Doug” Crawley | Evidence tampering, abuse of corpse |
| James Watson | Kidnapping, evidence tampering |
| Bridget Lyons | Kidnapping, evidence tampering |
| Jenny Keller | Kidnapping-related charges |
| Ronald Crawley | Kidnapping-related charges |
Investigations involving the co-defendants continue through the court system.
Suspect Remains Behind Bars
Crawley remains in custody at the Western Kentucky Correctional Complex while awaiting trial.
Authorities have not indicated any bond release.
The murder trial is expected to bring new testimony and evidence about what happened to April Arnett.
Family Still Mourning the Loss
April Arnett’s family says the pain of losing her has never faded.
Her sister, Cara Parsons, previously described learning about Arnett’s death as a devastating shock.
Family members say Arnett was a loving mother who cared deeply for her children until her final day.
As the trial date approaches, loved ones continue hoping the court process will finally bring answers and justice.
The upcoming 2027 trial could become one of Kentucky’s most closely watched criminal cases, as prosecutors prepare to present disturbing evidence connected to the death of a mother whose family has spent years waiting for closure.
