Pregnant Woman Found Dead in Tote Sparks Double Arrest in Ohio

In Jackson Township, Ohio, a routine walk turned horrifying on the evening of August 3, when hikers discovered a strong, abnormal odor coming from a plastic tote left by the roadside. Inside was the body of 28-year-old Brittany Fuhr-Storms, who was found sealed in the storage container. Emergency response teams later confirmed her death and noted she was pregnant at the time, although her unborn child did not survive.

Investigation Unravels a Shocking Trail

Authorities traced the case back to Brittany’s last known location, where two Middletown men—James Rothenbusch and Rick Sheppard—became the focus of their investigation.

Officials executed a narcotics search warrant at Rothenbusch’s home, discovering drug paraphernalia, a bloodstained tarp, towels, and screws that matched those used to seal Brittany’s body inside the tote.

Confessions Surface Amid Charges

During questioning, Rothenbusch admitted that Brittany died under suspicious circumstances in his home and that he kept her body there in the shower for several days before disposing of it along the road. Sheppard corroborated the timeline, stating Brittany’s body remained in the residence for nearly a week.

Both men acknowledged knowing that Brittany was pregnant at the time.

Legal Action Underway

Rothenbusch is facing a lengthy list of charges, including drug trafficking, tampering with evidence, gross abuse of a corpse, corrupting another with drugs, and failure to report a death. Sheppard faces charges for gross abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence. Investigators continue to await the coroner’s official determination regarding the cause and manner of death.

Community Hits a Chalkboard of Shock

Neighbors expressed disbelief and sadness. One resident shared that they had no idea something so disturbing could be happening right next door. The gruesome nature of the crime, combined with Brittany’s impending motherhood, amplified the tragedy felt throughout the community.

Honoring a Life and a Legacy

In the wake of this tragedy, Brittany’s family has launched a fundraising campaign to cover memorial expenses and honor her memory. They describe her loss as sudden and devastating, remembering Brittany as a beloved daughter and mother-to-be whose life was stolen too soon.

Family’s Plea for Justice

Brittany’s relatives have called for swift and severe consequences for those responsible. They have shared memories of her vibrant personality, her love for family, and her excitement about becoming a mother again. The family has also urged the public to come forward with any information that might aid the investigation.

The Broader Issue of Violence Against Women

This case highlights a grim pattern of violence against women, particularly those who are pregnant. Advocates stress the importance of community vigilance and better protection measures to prevent such tragedies. Law enforcement agencies hope this case will raise awareness about the dangers faced by vulnerable women.

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