In late spring 2025 the body of 39-year-old David Pierce Merrit was found on the north side of Whitesburg Bridge along U.S. 231/431 in Arab, Alabama. A passing motorist discovered the victim on the morning of May 30, wrapped in a bloody quilt with a garbage bag over his head. Fingerprint analysis identified him and investigators determined he died from a gunshot wound to the head. Evidence suggested someone had tried to dispose of the body in the Tennessee River.

Investigation led to 55-year-old Daniel Ray Shelton, who had been living with Merrit. A search of their residence turned up blood spatter on bedroom walls and carpet, a bloody phone charging cord, a broken lamp, and kitchen garbage bags matching the serial number of the bag placed over Merrit’s head. Shelton was located by the Cullman Police Department and questioned by the Huntsville Police Major Crimes Unit; in a recorded statement he admitted shooting Merrit in the back of the head during an argument, and to disposing of the victim’s phone, wallet, and ID in a nearby body of water. He was arrested and booked on charges of murder and abuse of a corpse.

Merrit’s friends and family remembered him as a musician, traveler, and storyteller. Did anyone in the area know Merrit or have information about his relationship with Shelton?