Dee Warner, a 52-year-old businesswoman and mother of five from southeastern Michigan, went missing on April 25, 2021, under circumstances that sparked a years-long investigation. Her husband, Dale Warner, was convicted in February 2026 of her murder and sentenced to up to 70 years in prison.
According to testimony at trial, Dee Warner was planning to ask her husband for a divorce on the night she disappeared. The couple owned several businesses together, but only a trucking company, which was solely in Dee’s name, was financially stable. Prosecutors argued that Dale Warner killed his wife to prevent the financial consequences of the divorce.
Dee Warner’s disappearance was initially reported on the evening of April 25, when her children grew concerned after she failed to respond to calls or messages. Dale Warner told investigators he had last seen his wife early that morning before heading out to work on their farm. He claimed she often left after arguments, including one the night before.
Law enforcement initially found no signs of foul play. Her toiletry bag and hair tools appeared to be missing, while her wedding ring was left on Dale’s desk. A ping of Dee’s phone revealed it had been powered off by 7:14 a.m. that Sunday.
As suspicion around Dale Warner grew, Dee's brother, Gregg Hardy, put up a billboard reading "Help Dale Find Dee" to pressure his brother-in-law. Community members later urged Michigan State Police to take over the investigation, which expanded to include searches of the couple’s extensive farmland. Investigators found tracks from heavy machinery leading to the property, which heightened suspicions.
Forensic evidence advanced the case in late 2023. Police discovered Dale had viewed online content related to burial methods for large propane tanks. During a search of the property, they found an anhydrous tank with a fresh coat of paint and a sticker labeled "Do Not Use." Inside, Dee’s body was discovered wrapped in a tarp, barefoot, and in her pajamas. The tank’s conditions had preserved her remains, allowing medical examiners to determine she died from strangulation and blunt force trauma.
At Dale Warner’s trial, prosecutors detailed how he concealed the murder and stored his wife’s body on their farm after learning of her intent to divorce. His defense attorney, who maintained his client’s innocence, has indicated plans to appeal the conviction.
Dee Warner’s daughter, Rikkell Bock, described her mother as a strong and compassionate woman who was always there for those in need. "What happened to her does not define who she is," Bock said. "She was a good person." Dee’s brother, Hardy, noted the loss has left an irreplaceable void in their family.
The case has drawn attention to the devastating aftermath of domestic violence and the efforts of families seeking justice for loved ones.