Another search underway in connection with 25-year disappearance of Asha Degree ...Middle East

LINCOLN COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) -- Authorities are conducting another search in connection with the disappearance of Asha Degree.

At 9 years old, Asha Degree went missing on Valentine's Day 2000 from her home in Shelby. She was last seen walking along NC Highway 182.

Investigators in Lincoln County are searching a property and several buildings at Highway 274 and NC Highway 182 concerning the case, the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on April 4, 2025. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the search.

Officials say the property owner consented to the search and that that person is not connected with the case. CCSO said the nature and outcome of the search will not be released at this time.

This comes after search warrants released in late February revealed text messages and a possible admission of guilt in connection with Asha's disappearance.

The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) are in charge of the investigation.

Anyone with information directly connected with Asha's disappearance is asked to call the Sheriff's Office at 704-484-4756.

This is a Developing Story. Check back for updates

Queen City News