Arley Bell Killian

Arley Bell Killian

Date Found: April 19, 1979

Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Investigating Agency: Oklahoma City Police Department

(405) 297-1180

On April 19th, 1979, children playing basketball in the 300 block of NE 10th St. in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma witnessed something shocking and gruesome, a dog running down the street with a human head in it’s mouth. A pelvis with the sexual organs removed, a left hand, and several circular portions of skin and flesh were also found, all of which were washed, cleaned, and devoid of blood. Some of them were in brown paper sacks, some hidden underneath newspapers and they were found throughout the neighborhood in the next few weeks. The last of the remains were found in the 200 block of NE 7th St., a block or so from where Cathy Shakelford’s remains were found April 1st, 1976.

The remains were identified through fingerprints and it was found that the victim was 22-year-old Arley Killian. Arley had a rough life. She was physically and mentally abused by her father growing up, culminating in her rape at age 16. From there Arley comforted herself with drugs. She soon found herself on the streets.

The placement of Arley’s remains throughout the neighborhood showed investigators that the killer was familiar with the area and was following the case. He was clearly toying with investigators.

Tina Sanders, discovered on March 5th, 1986, was linked to Arley and Cathy’s killer soon after her remains were discovered, in the same style as Arley’s and Cathy’s remains. This time the killer placed Tina’s head in a garbage can and set it on fire.

All three victims of the OKC Butcher were Native women who had addiction issues and had ties to survival sex work. To this day the case is unsolved and police have not named any new suspects in years.

If you have any information on the murders of Cathy, Arley, or Tina please call the OKC PD at 405.297.1180.

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