Fifth Suspect Arrested in Butler and Kelley Murder Case; Confession Reveals New Details

Paul Grice, has been arrested in the murder case of Veronica Butler and Jillian Kelley.

The 31-year-old Grice faces five counts, including two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of kidnapping, and one count of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. Grice’s arrest follows the earlier arrests of Tiffany Adams, Tad Collum, and Cole and Cora Twombly, who are all facing similar charges.

According to the probable cause affidavit, Grice has admitted to his involvement in the planning and execution of the murders. The affidavit reveals that Butler, a 27-year-old mother of two, was involved in a contentious custody battle with Adams, her former mother-in-law. On the day of the murders, Butler and Kelley were traveling to meet Adams for a supervised visitation when they were ambushed.

Investigators have pieced together a timeline of events using phone records and surveillance footage. On March 30, 2024, the suspects used burner phones to coordinate their actions, which were later traced to the crime scene and Grice’s residence. The phones went offline shortly after the murders, adding to the evidence against the suspects.

Further details from the investigation indicate that the suspects blocked the road to divert Butler and Kelley to a predetermined location where Adams, Collum, and Grice awaited. Grice’s confession has provided crucial information, including the burial site of the victims, which was discovered on a property linked to Tad Collum.

The community of Texas County, Oklahoma, has been deeply affected by these events. The arrests and ongoing investigation have highlighted the extensive efforts of law enforcement in bringing the suspects to justice. As the case proceeds to trial, the community remains vigilant, hoping for a resolution that brings closure to the families of Veronica Butler and Jillian Kelley.