News Summary
A 36-year-old man, Andrew Wiley, has been charged with second-degree murder following the discovery of his missing daughter Lori Paige’s remains in Georgia. Lori, reported missing in June 2021, was the focus of extensive search efforts by law enforcement and community volunteers. Investigators revealed inconsistencies in Wiley’s statements and troubling internet searches that contributed to his arrest. As details unfold, the case raises awareness about child safety and the importance of community vigilance.
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – A 36-year-old man has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection with the case of his missing daughter, 12-year-old Lori Paige. Andrew Wiley was apprehended following the discovery of Lori’s remains in Thomas County, Georgia, after a prescribed burn cleared brush in the area on April 5, 2023.
Lori was reported missing in June 2021, when her father stated that she had left their home with a backpack while he was at work. However, inconsistencies in his account raised suspicion among investigators. Over nearly two years, law enforcement, including the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) and the FBI, collaborated with community volunteers and Lori’s family to search for her.
Investigators have analyzed Wiley’s phone records, uncovering troubling internet searches about remote locations with bodies of water in Alabama and Georgia. The exploration of these queries contributed to the shifting focus on him as the investigation progressed.
The search for Lori involved comprehensive efforts, including a grid search at San Luis Mission Park, which was the last known location where she had been seen. Throughout this challenging period, the community displayed solidarity, actively participating in search efforts and holding out hope for Lori’s return. Many residents were impacted by her case, describing Lori as a dedicated student despite her difficult home life.
Lori’s mother had previously expressed dissatisfaction with the police’s handling of the investigation, highlighting the complexities involved, including Lori’s troubled history and lack of a digital footprint. Lori had previously run away from home and was known to seek food from friends. Additionally, she had spent time in the custody of the Department of Children and Families during her early years, reflecting the tumultuous dynamics within her family.
As the investigation into Lori’s disappearance continued, the TPD revealed that Chief Lawrence Revell confirmed the positive identification of Lori’s remains. Revell stated that while the arrest of Andrew Wiley and the recovery of Lori’s remains marked a step toward justice, it would not alleviate the grief felt by the community.
In a parallel development, the TPD is also investigating the case of 15-year-old Serenity Howard, who has been missing since Monday. Serenity was last seen in the 2800 block of S. Adams Street, wearing black tights, a brown t-shirt, and black and brown tennis shoes. The department urges anyone with information regarding Serenity’s whereabouts to contact them at (850) 891-4200.
As the investigation into Lori’s death unfolds, many continue to reflect on the significance of her case. Margie Summers, a school paraprofessional, noted the hope that lingered in the community for Lori’s safe return. The pain of her loss resonates deeply, serving as a stark reminder of the struggles faced by vulnerable children and the importance of community engagement in ensuring their safety.
The intertwined cases of Lori Paige and Serenity Howard highlight ongoing concerns regarding child safety and the need for vigilant community involvement. While the arrest of Andrew Wiley brings some measure of accountability, it also underscores the ongoing challenges faced by children in similar situations across the country. As authorities continue their work to uncover the truth behind these tragedies, the community remains steadfast in their commitment to support affected families and ensure the safety of their children.
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Additional Resources
- Tallahassee.com: Update on Lori Paige
- Wikipedia: Missing Person
- Miami Herald: Lori Paige Case
- Google Search: Missing People Florida
- WTXL: Missing Tallahassee Teen Found
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- KCRG: Missing Girl Found Dead
- Google News: Lori Paige Investigation
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.
