HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WDNews) — A North Alabama murder-for-hire investigation has taken a dramatic and unexpected turn after both suspects accused in the case were found dead in Cullman County.
According to authorities, Kristin Slayton and Christopher Robertson were charged earlier this year in Madison County with conspiracy to commit murder. Investigators alleged the pair attempted to hire someone to kill Robert Slayton, Kristin Slayton’s husband. Both suspects were arrested in February and later released on bond.
The case took another turn in early June when Slayton and Robertson became wanted on additional arson and drug-related charges connected to a structure fire in Cullman County. Investigators from Madison and Cullman counties launched a search after receiving information that the pair may be in the Welti community.
Authorities discovered Kristin Slayton’s body on June 10 while searching property near the fire scene. A statewide alert was then issued for Robertson as the search continued. The following day, investigators located Robertson’s remains, bringing the multi-day search to an end.
Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry praised investigators for their efforts during the search, which involved difficult terrain and extreme summer heat. Officials have stated there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The causes of death for both Slayton and Robertson have not been released. Authorities have also not publicly said whether the deaths are connected to one another or to the arson investigation that prompted the search. Both deaths remain under investigation.
The intended target of the alleged murder-for-hire plot, Robert Slayton, has since spoken publicly about the case following the discovery of the two suspects.
