CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — After a year of secrecy surrounding a case handled by the Chillicothe Police Department, new information is beginning to surface. The events unfolded on Thursday, April 14, 2022, when authorities responded to a report of human remains discovered in a wooded area behind Hobby Lobby on Bridge Street in Chillicothe. Notably, the area is recognized as a homeless encampment.
Law enforcement officials have kept a tight-lipped approach, refraining from disclosing specific details. However, recent revelations from sources close to the deceased individual have shed light on her identity. The woman has been identified as 40-year-old Brandi Nicole Sutton, originally from Washington Court House.
To date, official information about the circumstances surrounding Sutton’s death is still undisclosed. Nevertheless, the gravity of the case was clear as three detectives were summoned to the scene during the gruesome discovery. Although authorities have chosen not to comment on the cause of death or the potential presence of suspicious circumstances, The Guardian received communications from family members expressing their own bewilderment as to why no arrests have been made.
Provided details from Sutton’s family suggest that her sudden death allegedly occurred in Washington Court House due to a suspected drug overdose at an apartment. Information obtained from sources shows that the police investigation at the time could not definitively determine if she was administered a “hot shot,” a term used to describe a forced overdose. According to sources, detectives have interviewed witnesses who claimed that a male individual accompanying Sutton panicked upon discovering her lifeless body. Allegedly, this individual, along with another male, later transported Sutton’s body to the homeless encampment behind Hobby Lobby, where an attempt was made to set her body on fire. The Guardian reached out to the Ross County Coroner’s Office to learn the cause of death; however, they have refrained from commenting, until speaking with prosecutors, citing a possible ongoing criminal investigation.
In addition, the family has disclosed that three people of interest have been identified by the police. They also said that they feel Brandi was murdered and the perpetrators involved in this case may get away with it if police don’t act.
Ohio’s First Capital has grappled with a series of unsolved homicides and missing person cases over the years, leaving the community haunted by an unsettling sense of vulnerability. Compared to larger cities, the size of Chillicothe amplifies the impact of these unresolved crimes, heightening concerns among residents that they too could fall victim to violent acts. As a result, citizens are increasingly urging city officials to take stronger measures in ensuring the safety and security of the community. The lingering uncertainty surrounding these cases serves as a constant reminder of the pressing need for enhanced efforts in addressing crime prevention and providing justice for those affected.
Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Chillicothe Police Department.
