Police Find Remains on Man’s Property Amid Probe Into Wife’s Disappearance

Human remains were recently discovered on the property of Dale Warner, husband of missing Michigan woman Dee Ann Warner.

At a Glance

Human remains were found on Dale Warner’s property in Lenawee County, Michigan.
Dee Ann Warner has been missing since April 25, 2021.
Dale Warner was charged with open murder and tampering in 2023.
Remains are yet to be identified, family has been notified.
Case highlights challenges in prosecuting cases without a body.

Discovery of Remains

In a significant development, human remains have been discovered on the property of Dale Warner, who was charged in the 2021 disappearance of his wife, Dee Ann. The Michigan State Police conducted a search with judicial approval in Lenawee County.

Authorities have not yet identified the remains, and caution that extensive testing will be required before any conclusive identification can be made. The Warner family has been notified of the discovery, as law enforcement works to unravel the mystery that has haunted them for nearly three years.

Dale Warner’s Legal Troubles

Dale Warner was charged last year with open murder and tampering in connection with his wife’s disappearance. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and a judge ruled there was sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to trial. The discovery of human remains on his property adds a new dimension to the ongoing legal proceedings.

“The remains are currently in the process of being recovered and there will be a great deal of work and testing completed before positive identification is made,” state police said in a statement.

The case has been challenging for authorities due to the absence of a body, raising questions about why the property wasn’t searched earlier. This recent discovery may provide crucial evidence for prosecutors as they build their case against Dale Warner.

Dee Ann Warner’s Disappearance

Dee Ann Warner, a mother of five who ran a trucking company and farming business, was reported missing on April 25, 2021, by three of her adult children. Her disappearance followed a business dispute involving her, her husband, and one or two of her employees the night she vanished.

“I have to stay focused on the reality that it happened,” Dee Ann’s brother Hardy said. “Sometimes it feels almost impossible that it could have happened, but I stay focused on the facts that demonstrate that it did happen and who did it. And I’m a firm believer in justice.”

The couple had been married for 15 years at the time of Dee Ann’s disappearance. Friends and family members have shared concerns about the relationship, with one friend testifying about abuse and Dee’s intention to speak with a lawyer shortly before she went missing.

Ongoing Investigation and Family’s Hope for Closure

As the investigation continues, Dee Ann Warner’s family clings to hope for answers and justice. Multiple searches have been conducted over the years by various law enforcement agencies, including the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office, Michigan State Police, and the FBI.

“The family of Dee Warner has been contacted and advised of the findings.” a Michigan State Police statement revealed. “This continues to be an ongoing investigation.”

As authorities work to identify the remains and gather further evidence, the nation watches closely, hoping for resolution in this tragic mystery.