News Summary
Andrew Wiley has been arrested for the second-degree murder of his daughter, Lori Paige, who was reported missing for nearly two years. Lori’s remains were discovered in Georgia, leading to intense scrutiny of Wiley’s inconsistent account of her disappearance. As the investigation continues, community members seek justice and answers surrounding Lori’s tragic death.
Tallahassee, Florida — Andrew Wiley has been arrested in connection with the death of his daughter, Lori Paige, who was reported missing on June 3, 2023, at the age of 12. After nearly two years of extensive searches and investigations, the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) confirmed the discovery of Lori’s remains on April 5, 2024, in a remote area of Thomas County, Georgia.
Wiley, the last known caretaker of Lori, initially reported that she left their home with a backpack while he was at work. However, inconsistencies in his account prompted law enforcement to scrutinize his involvement. Investigators seized Wiley’s phone in February 2024, which revealed troubling internet searches pertaining to isolated locations with bodies of water in Alabama and Georgia. These discoveries played a significant role in the unfolding investigation.
The TPD announced the recovery of Lori’s remains during a press conference, gathered in a brush-covered area known as the Merrily Plantation. The location is recognized locally for its remoteness and was previously inaccessible due to dense underbrush. The investigation surrounding Lori’s disappearance had been described as complicated, partly due to her lack of a digital footprint and the family’s dispersal across multiple states, including Florida, Tennessee, and Georgia.
Immediately following the confirmation of Lori’s remains, Andrew Wiley was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. TPD Chief Lawrence Revell underscored the department’s commitment to seeking justice for Lori, emphasizing that the search for her would culminate in finding her and bringing her home.
In the lengthy investigation, TPD engaged community members and employed a range of search methods, including the use of dogs and helicopters, to locate Lori. Prior to her disappearance, Lori was under her father’s custody and was described by school staff as a dedicated student who maintained a focus on education, despite challenges in her home life.
Notably, it was brought to light that Lori had previously run away approximately one month before her disappearance. Margie Summers, a paraprofessional at Griffin Middle School, stated that although Lori faced difficulties, her commitment to attending school never waned. This aspect of Lori’s character highlights the conflicting circumstances she endured while growing up.
As the case continues to unfold, community members are left grappling with the tragedy of Lori’s loss, while investigators aim to piece together the details surrounding her untimely death. Andrew Wiley’s arrest marks a significant turn in the search for justice, ensuring that efforts remain ongoing in addressing the circumstances surrounding Lori’s life and tragic end.
As this situation develops, further investigations are anticipated. The TPD has stated they will maintain transparency regarding the progression of the case and are actively pursuing any additional information that may aid in understanding the full scope of events leading to Lori’s death.
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Arrest Made in the Case of Missing 12-Year-Old Lori Paige
Missing Teen Silas Robards Found Safe in Tallahassee
Tallahassee Community Unites to Honor Lori Paige
Tallahassee Sees Remarkable Drop in Crime Rates
Tallahassee Police Arrest Father in Lori Paige Case
Additional Resources
- Tallahassee.com: Update on Lori Paige
- Wikipedia: Missing Person
- WTXL: Body of Missing Teen Found
- Google Search: Lori Paige Missing Teen
- Action News 5: Missing Girl Found Dead
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Person
- WFLA: Father Arrested for Murder
- Google News: Lori Paige
Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER
The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
