NORFOLK, Va. - Arrests have been made in the murder of a Norfolk teen whose body was found in Newport News after she was reported missing in September.
According to police, two people have been arrested in connection to 17-year-old Asia Cowell's murder.
On September 22 at 11:15 a.m., Newport News Police responded to a call about a deceased person located near the woods close to the 16000 block of Warwick Blvd.
When they got there, police located the body of a female victim, who medics pronounced dead.
After a thorough investigation, police said the victim was identified as Cowell, who was reported missing on September 7.
On December 2 around 9:39 a.m., 30-year-old Crystal Ashley Rudy Albrittion of Norfolk was arrested at the Newport News Police Department Headquarters. Albrittion is charged with one count each of: 1st degree murder, abduction by force, use of firearm in commission of a felony, criminal solicitation and conspiracy to commit felony.
Police also secured petitions against an 18-year-old woman in connection with the murder.
According to police, she was a juvenile at the time the incident occurred, so her name will not be released.
The 18-year-old is charged with murder: 1st degree murder, abduction by force, use of firearm in commission of a felony and conspiracy to commit felony.
"I am proud of the work our detectives have done to bring some closure to Ms. Cowell’s family. They have worked tirelessly alongside Norfolk Police detectives to exhaust all leads and find those responsible. Thank you to Chief Boone with Norfolk Police and our partners at the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office for their assistance in this investigation,” stated Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew.
Following the news of the arrests, Cowell's family issued the following statement:
“We are very pleased and overjoyed to hear the news regarding the arrest of several suspects in our dear Asia Cowell’s case. We would like to thank the diligent and hard-working law enforcement officials of the Newport News Police Department and the Norfolk Police Department. We would also like to thank the Hampton Roads community and beyond for all the prayers and outpouring of support we have received over the past several months. All of you are very much appreciated.”
The family asks for everyone to please respect the family's privacy at this time.
According to the Newport News JDR court clerk, Crystal Ashley Rudy Albritton has a bond hearing December 17, 2020 at 11:30 a.m.
Devin Aris Albritton's preliminary hearing will be on Feb 24, 2021 at 8:30 a.m.
