Chrysty Lynn Copeland
FLORENCE-The Florence Police Department’s Chief Ron Tyler released a statement concerning the death and autopsy done on the body that was found near Helton Drive on Thursday, September 1:
Death Investigation of Chrysty Lynn Copeland
“Earlier today the Florence Police Department received preliminary results of the autopsy of
Chrysty Lynn Copeland, 39, from the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Huntsville. Ms.
Copeland’s remains were located last Thursday (September 1, 2016) along Helton Drive between
Florence Blvd. and Huntsville Rd.
Upon finding the remains, Detectives from the Florence Police Department and Lauderdale
County Sheriff’s Office jointly began searching for answers as to how and why Ms. Copeland died and
was found along a stretch of busy highway in our community. Due to the condition of Ms. Copeland’s
remains Detectives were unable to determine an immediate cause of death, however, no trauma was
visibly seen on the deceased or her clothing at the time police first responded.
Over the course of the last week our community has provided information critical to our
investigation. Please rest assured that every tip has been thoroughly investigated and every lead has
been followed up on by our department.
Our investigation has revealed that Ms. Copeland was released from the Lauderdale County
Detention Center on August 4, 2016. A review of her records indicated that the clothing located with
her remains was identical to the clothing she was wearing when she left the detention center. Our
investigation also determined that other items located with her remains were consistent with those in
her possession at the time of her release.
Furthermore, our department’s investigation found that Ms. Copeland suffered from several
serious medical conditions. We were able to determine that temperatures on August 4th, rose above 94
degrees with a heat index of 102 degrees. We also determined that she left walking upon her release
from the Lauderdale County Detention Center. This is the last time Ms. Copeland was seen alive.
Now, preliminary results from the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences have confirmed
that no trauma was located on Ms. Copeland’s remains. A final report from Ms. Copeland’s autopsy is
pending additional, on-going study. This is normal procedure in cases of significant decomposition.
Therefore, based on the investigation thus far, we do not believe any foul play occurred in the
death of Chrysty Lynn Copeland. If any media has additional questions, or if anyone from the community
has new information, you are encouraged to contact Det. Brad Holmes at 256-768-2764.”
Ron Tyler
Chief of Police
Florence Police Department
