Authorities have arrested two women in connection with the death of Mary Elizabeth Isbell, also known as Beth Wright. Isbell's remains were discovered in Little River Canyon National Preserve after she was reported missing in late 2021.

Loretta Carr, 45, from Fort Payne, Alabama, was apprehended by a tactical team in DeKalb County. Jessie Eden Kelly, the second suspect, was arrested in Pennsylvania and is also facing charges in Missouri.

The two women are accused of kidnapping Isbell and pushing her off a cliff, according to court documents. Isbell’s ex-husband reported her missing after she failed to contact their teenage son for Christmas in 2021. Despite initial searches of her home and vehicle, investigators were unable to locate her.

The breakthrough in the case came on June 20th, 2023, when authorities received a credible tip. This led to the discovery of human remains at the national preserve, which were later identified as Isbell's. The identification was confirmed on what would have been her 39th birthday.

While Carr's attorney contends there is insufficient evidence to hold her, law enforcement agencies involved in the multi-state investigation express confidence in their case. DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that brought closure to this case and requested privacy for Isbell's family.