“The ‘No Body’ Case of Dee Warner”: 48 Hours Reports February 1 2025

This Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 10:00 PM ET/PT, 48 Hours delves into the disappearance and murder of Dee Warner, a Michigan businesswoman and mother who vanished in April 2021. For years, her family searched for answers, facing a daunting challenge—no body, no physical evidence, and a suspect who maintained his innocence.

Correspondent Erin Moriarty reports on this tragic case, detailing how authorities built a murder case without a body and how private investigator Billy Little uncovered clues that led to a shocking discovery. After three years of searching, Dee’s remains were found hidden in an anhydrous ammonia tank on her husband Dale Warner’s property. With Dale now awaiting trial for her murder, 48 Hours explores the twists and turns that ultimately led to justice.

The Disappearance of Dee Warner

Dee Ann Warner was last seen in the early hours of April 25, 2021, at her home in Franklin Township, Michigan. When her daughter, Rikkell Bock, visited the family farm later that day, she realized something was wrong—her mother was nowhere to be found, and all communication had stopped.

Her husband, Dale Warner, claimed she had left after an argument. He suggested that she had disappeared voluntarily, a claim that was difficult to believe. Dee’s phone, bank accounts, and social media showed no activity after that night. Surveillance footage confirmed that while Dale was seen moving around the property, there was no evidence of Dee leaving.

As time passed, concerns grew. Dee had always been active in her community and was devoted to her family, especially her youngest daughter. Her absence was uncharacteristic, and those close to her suspected foul play. With no physical evidence, however, law enforcement struggled to move the case forward.

A Troubled Marriage

Dee Warner’s relationship with Dale Warner was marked by control, manipulation, and alleged abuse. Friends and family later testified that Dee was afraid of her husband. Her daughter, Rikkell, recalled how her mother described their marriage as toxic and volatile.

Dale had reportedly placed a tracking device on Dee’s car and monitored her every move. He also controlled their finances, isolating Dee from making independent decisions. Those closest to her believed she had been preparing to leave him, a decision that may have led to her death.

Family members later admitted they had seen warning signs but did not fully understand the extent of Dee’s suffering. It wasn’t until her disappearance that they began piecing together the troubling details of her relationship with Dale.

The Investigation Stalls

For more than two years, investigators searched for evidence that could prove what had happened to Dee. Without a body, authorities lacked the physical proof typically needed to prosecute a murder case.

The Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office initially led the investigation, but in August 2023, the Michigan State Police took over. They re-examined evidence and began focusing on Dale. Despite his repeated claims of innocence, his behavior raised suspicions.

Dee’s family hired private investigator Billy Little, who conducted his own search for clues. He believed that Dale knew more than he was letting on and pushed authorities to look closer at the family’s properties. While searches had been conducted in the past, no breakthroughs were made—until the summer of 2024.

Discovery of Dee Warner’s Remains

On August 17, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant on a farm property owned by Dale Warner, located on Paragon Road. This was not the first time the property had been searched, but this time, investigators focused on a specific object—an anhydrous ammonia tank, similar to a residential propane storage unit.

Upon closer inspection, the tank had been resealed and repainted. Authorities cut it open and made a grim discovery—human remains. Days later, forensic testing confirmed what the Warner family had feared for years. Dee had been hidden in plain sight, concealed inside the tank for more than three years.

The location of Dee’s body raised questions. Had she been there all along, or had she been moved at some point? Investigators believed that Dale had initially hidden her elsewhere before sealing her inside the tank in an attempt to permanently conceal the evidence.

Arrest and Charges

On November 21, 2023, before Dee’s body was found, Dale Warner was arrested and charged with open murder and tampering with evidence. Authorities had built a circumstantial case, arguing that Dale was the only person with motive, means, and opportunity to harm Dee.

After the discovery of Dee’s remains, the prosecution’s case was significantly strengthened. Dale remained in custody on a $15 million bond, with additional charges possible.

Open murder charges allow a jury to determine the degree of the crime. If convicted of first-degree murder, Dale would face a mandatory sentence of life in prison without parole. A second-degree murder conviction could result in life with the possibility of parole.

Legal Battle Ahead

Dale Warner’s trial is scheduled to begin on September 2, 2025, in Lenawee County Circuit Court. The trial is expected to last six weeks, running four days a week from Tuesday to Friday.

During preliminary hearings, testimony from Dee’s family and investigators provided insight into the prosecution’s strategy. They intend to present evidence of Dale’s controlling behavior, his inconsistencies in statements, and the forensic findings that led to Dee’s discovery.

Dale’s defense team has maintained that he is innocent, arguing that there is no direct evidence linking him to Dee’s death. His lead attorney, Mary Chartier, has stated that they are prepared to challenge the prosecution’s case in court.

The Family’s Fight for Justice

For Dee’s family, the discovery of her remains brought both relief and sorrow. After years of unanswered questions, they could finally lay her to rest. However, they remain determined to see Dale held accountable.

In addition to criminal charges, the family pursued legal action against Dale. In May 2023, they filed a wrongful death lawsuit, hoping to prevent him from benefiting from any assets tied to Dee.

They also fought to have Dee legally declared deceased so that her estate could be settled. The court ultimately ruled in their favor, marking another step toward closure.

Community Support and Dee’s Legacy

Throughout the investigation, the community rallied behind the Warner family. Vigils were held, and signs demanding justice for Dee were displayed across town.

Dee was remembered as a strong-willed woman who worked tirelessly in the agribusiness industry. She was also deeply involved in 4-H, mentoring young people and encouraging their growth.

To honor her memory, her nephew, Parker Hardy, established the Dee Warner Distinguished Junior Member Award, recognizing outstanding 4-H members who embody her dedication and passion.

Final Thoughts

The case of Dee Warner highlights the complexities of prosecuting a murder without a body and the persistence required to seek justice. For years, her family fought to uncover the truth, refusing to let her case go cold.

As Dale Warner awaits trial, 48 Hours sheds light on the investigation that brought long-awaited answers. The upcoming episode will explore the years of suspicion, legal battles, and the shocking discovery that finally brought closure to a case that haunted a small Michigan community.

Tune in to 48 Hours this Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 10:00 PM ET/PT on CBS, or stream the episode the next day on Paramount+.

Avatar photo

Ryan Gill

Ryan is a passionate follower of true crime television programs, reporting on and providing in-depth investigations on mysteries in the criminal world.

You may also like...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *