New Development in 18-Year-Old Murder Case: Former Girlfriend Charged with Nicole Alston's Death

Strategic Insights -

Investigations into Nicole Alston's murder have been ongoing for nearly two decades, but it wasn't until advanced DNA testing and forensic genealogy confirmed her identity in December 2023 that new leads emerged. Now, Angel M. Thompson, Alston's former girlfriend, has been charged with murder in connection with the case. Thompson was booked in Fulton County Jail on Monday, and the murder warrant is dated December 6, 2007, the same day Alston's remains were discovered.

Key Takeaways:

  • Angel M. Thompson, Alston's former girlfriend, has been charged with murder 18 years after Alston's body was found in a burning bag in Troup County.
  • Thompson was previously charged with concealing Alston's death and committing years of identity fraud in her name.
  • The case reopened in 2023, when advanced DNA testing confirmed the remains belonged to Alston, a 24-year-old woman from Manhattan, New York.
  • Prosecutors believe Thompson was in a romantic relationship with Alston when they traveled to Georgia together, but the relationship became abusive and exploitative.
  • Thompson allegedly assumed Alston's identity shortly after the killing, collecting over $200,000 in government benefits and using her name to secure housing and services until 2015.
  • The indictment is expected to be handed down in October, with DA Willis announcing her intention to carefully investigate the case for potential other victims.
  • Investigators believe Thompson may have exploited other women after Alston's death, with DA Willis hoping new attention on the case will lead to the discovery of additional victims.

Statistics:

  • The remains of Nicole Alston were discovered on December 6, 2007, with her hands, feet, and head missing.
  • Advanced DNA testing and forensic genealogy confirmed Alston's identity in December 2023.
  • Thompson allegedly assumed Alston's identity and collected over $200,000 in government benefits from 2007 to 2015.
  • Thompson was booked in Fulton County Jail on Monday, with the murder warrant dated December 6, 2007.
  • DA Willis announced her intention to indict the case carefully, with an indictment expected in October.

Sources:

  • Fani Willis, DA (mentioned in the press conference)
  • Will Wooten, Deputy District Attorney (e-mail address and phone number provided for inquiries)
  • 11Alive (previous reporting mentioned)
  • Fulton County Jail (jail records showing Thompson's booking and warrant)
  • Troup County Sheriff's Office (report of Nicole Alston's remains found in 2007)