What Happened To Lori Paige? Father Arrested After 13-Year-Old’s Remains Found Nearly 2 Years Later
What Happened To Lori Paige? Father Arrested After 13-Year-Old’s Remains Found Nearly 2 Years Later

In a devastating turn of events, the remains of 13-year-old Lori Paige, who vanished nearly two years ago from her Tallahassee home, have been found. Her father, 42-year-old Andrew Wiley, has been arrested and charged with her murder.

Lori’s disappearance in June 2023 sparked one of the most extensive missing child investigations in Florida’s recent history. Despite national attention and exhaustive efforts by local police, federal agents, and volunteers, the case remained unsolved — until now.

Human Remains Found in Remote Wooded Area

The Tallahassee Police Department confirmed that Lori’s skeletal remains were recovered earlier this week in a densely wooded area approximately 22 miles west of the city. According to authorities, the discovery was made after a “critical tip” and reexamination of digital forensic evidence from 2023 led them back to the original suspect: Lori’s own father.

“This is a deeply painful day for our community,” Police Chief Ronald Hayes said during a Friday morning press briefing. “While we hoped to bring Lori home alive, we are now focused on bringing justice for her and holding the person responsible fully accountable.”

Father Arrested and Charged with First-Degree Murder

Andrew Wiley was taken into custody at his residence late Thursday without resistance. He now faces charges including first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse, and tampering with physical evidence. Authorities say he acted alone but are not ruling out the possibility of additional charges or accomplices as the investigation continues.

The police have not released the specific cause of death but confirmed that forensic examination of the remains is underway. The medical examiner’s report is expected in the coming weeks.

Lori’s Mother Speaks Out

Jenna Paige, Lori’s mother and Wiley’s former partner, broke her silence with a statement to the media:

“Lori was my heart. She was smart, kind, and had dreams bigger than this world. I never stopped searching. I never stopped believing. This isn’t the ending we wanted, but at least we know the truth.”

Paige had been publicly vocal in the early months of the search but retreated from the spotlight as the case went cold. Friends close to the family say she had long suspected Wiley’s involvement.

Timeline of a Tragedy

  • June 3, 2023 – Lori is last seen at her Tallahassee home. Wiley claims she left for a friend’s house and never returned.

  • June 5, 2023 – Lori officially reported missing. An Amber Alert is issued.

  • Summer–Fall 2023 – Searches span multiple counties. Wiley remains “cooperative,” according to police.

  • 2024 – Case grows cold despite public campaigns and national coverage.

  • April 2025 – A renewed investigation leads to the discovery of remains and Wiley’s arrest.

Community in Mourning

Tallahassee residents have responded with shock and grief. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Saturday evening at Cascades Park, where classmates, teachers, and neighbors will honor Lori’s memory. Organizers expect hundreds to attend.

“This was every parent’s nightmare,” said local volunteer Linda Morales, who joined the original search. “We wanted a miracle. Now we just want justice.”

Investigation Ongoing

Law enforcement officials confirm that they are still analyzing digital communications, phone records, and surveillance data from 2023. More information is expected to emerge in the coming weeks as prosecutors build their case.

Andrew Wiley is currently being held at the Leon County Jail without bond. His first court appearance is scheduled for Monday.