What Happened to Ashley?

The Tragic Event

On the afternoon of April 8, 2011, Ashley Okland was inside a model home at 558 Stone Creek Court in West Des Moines when a nearby Rottlund Homes employee heard a disturbance. Upon entering, they found Ashley on the floor with gunshot wounds and called emergency services.

Ashley had been shot twice. She was taken to the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, where she died from her injuries.

Ashley’s mother, Deb Cochran, told KCCI that she believes her daughter’s final moments hold important clues.

“I think she knew the person, because there was no struggle,” Cochran said. “I’m sure she looked up, gave a big smile and probably that was it.”

Just minutes before her death, Ashley had sent a text to a friend. It wasn’t a cry for help. The message gave no indication she was in danger.

Investigation Details

Authorities do not believe the attack was random, but no motive and no suspects have been named. Investigators have followed up on nearly 900 leads and interviewed approximately 500 individuals, but there have been no arrests.

Assistant Chief of Police Jody Hayes said, “Certain things are only known by the person that committed the crime. So those things are good investigative strategy to keep to ourselves. Because at some point, if they surface, you know that possibly, you know, you’ve got a lead to follow.”

Iowa's new Cold Case Unit is now taking a look into who killed Ashley Okland.

Seeking Justice

Police believe someone has key information about the case and continue to encourage potential witnesses to come forward.

A reward of up to $150,000 remains available for information that leads to an arrest and conviction.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Central Iowa at 515-223-1400 or 800-452-1111. Tips can also be submitted online at crimestoppersofcentral.com or via the P3TIPS app.

Do you know who killed Ashley?

If you have any information or leads related to Ashley Okland's case, please reach out to us.