Trumann, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – The Trumann Police Department (TPD) confirmed that human remains discovered at a local home last month have been positively identified by the Arkansas State Crime Lab as Rebecca Lucille Montogomery.
The discovery was made on Aug. 21 when local and state SWAT teams executed a search warrant at a home at 401 N. Pine St. in Trumann.
The property is owned by 56-year-old Rudy A. Ray, who is currently behind bars in connection with the case. Ray was originally arrested on a fugitive from justice charge in Franklin, TN, on the same day the remains were found.
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Ray was brought back to Arkansas and booked into the Poinsett County Detention Center on Aug. 29. He recently appeared before the Poinsett County District Court, where a judge denied his bond and ordered him to remain in custody. Ray faces felony charges of first-degree murder, abuse of a corpse, and tampering with physical evidence. His next court date is set for Sept. 18.
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Trumann Police Chief Doug Thomas emphasized that the case is still active and under investigation. No further details regarding the exact circumstances of Montgomery’s death are being released at this time to protect the integrity of the case.
“Our thoughts remain with Rebecca’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Chief Thomas shared in a statement. “We ask that their privacy be respected as they continue to navigate this loss.”
Police said that additional information will be provided to the public once it can be confirmed and released safely by investigators.
This is a developing story. JRN will provide updates as they are available.
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