The News-Courier in Athens, Alabama

January 15, 2009

Body of missing woman found in west Ala.


MOUNDVILLE, Ala. (AP) — Authorities in west Alabama have found a body believed to be that of a woman who has been missing since early this month.

Moundville Police Chief Ken Robertson said Wednesday a body found overnight in Pickens County was believed to be the remains of 30-year-old Tonya Stephens of Moundville.

The chief said one person was jailed in her death, but charges were not filed immediately.

Stephens was last seen on Jan. 4. A friend said she last spoke to her while Stephens was driving to the home of her former husband, Todd Stephens, to pick up their son after a weekend visit.

Stephens lives in Gordo, the same area where police say the body was located.