New Developments in Iowa Cold Case Murder

A woman has been arrested regarding the murder of an Iowa real estate agent, a case that had remained unsolved for over a decade. The suspect, Christine Ramsey, 53, was charged with first-degree murder in connection with the killing of Ashley Okland, which took place on April 8, 2011.

Okland was shot twice: once in the chest and once in the face, while she was inside a model townhome owned by Rotrand Homes, the same company that employed Ramsey at the time of the incident.

Recently unsealed court documents reveal that a witness observed Ramsey displaying “unusual behavior” shortly after the shooting. This neighbor reported hearing two loud bangs and saw Ramsey outside near the townhome’s front door. Interestingly, the witness noticed her walking around and using her cell phone, looking out of the second-story window.

According to court filings, rather than calling emergency services right after the alleged incident, Ramsey opted to contact a co-worker at Rotrand Homes.

Witnesses indicated that shortly after, Ramsey was seen speeding away from the scene, a detail that has raised eyebrows. Notably, someone else called 911 to report the shooting instead of Ramsey herself.

Prosecutors have pointed out discrepancies in Ramsey’s statements regarding her whereabouts on the day of the murder. Investigators found firearms and illegal drugs during a search of her residence in May 2011, and similar items were discovered in a second search prior to Ramsey’s recent arrest.

A motion has been filed by the state opposing Ramsey’s request to lower her bail from $2 million to $100,000. At this time, a motive for the crime remains unclear, and Ramsey has not provided a defense. She is set to appear in court for a bail hearing soon.

Ramsey’s attorney has not responded to requests for comments regarding the case.