THE BULLITT COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE announced Thursday that Deandre McElroy has been indicted a second time for the 2014 murder of local woman Donesha McStoots. The indictment, returned by a grand jury after a renewed review of the case, includes charges of murder, assault, tampering with physical evidence and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.
Background of the 2014 homicide
McStoots was discovered on May 9, 2014 near the entrance of the Knob Creek Gun Range with a gunshot wound to the back. Police noted she was partially unclothed and had been exposed to sulfuric acid before being taken to a hospital, where she later died.
Legal history
McElroy was first charged with murder in 2015, but a district‑court judge dismissed the case without prejudice. In early 2024 the sheriff’s office reopened the investigation, working closely with the Bullitt County Commonwealth’s Attorney. Their joint effort led to the grand jury’s decision to indict McElroy on the expanded set of offenses.
Current proceedings
McElroy was taken into custody on Thursday following the indictment. He remains in the county jail pending a preliminary hearing. The sheriff’s office is asking anyone with information about the case to contact them at 502‑543‑2514.
Community response
Friends and family of McStoots have expressed relief that the case is moving forward after a decade of uncertainty. Local leaders emphasized the importance of thorough investigations and the role of the grand jury system in seeking justice for victims.
The indictment underscores the continued commitment of Bullitt County law‑enforcement agencies to resolve cold cases and hold perpetrators accountable.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
