Body found in Gentry’s vehicle

Published 6:35 pm Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Shelby County Sheriff Chris Curry and Shelby County District Attorney Robby Owens speak about pulling Gentry's vehicle from the quarry on the evening of April 11. (Reporter photo/Christine Boatwright)

By CHRISTINE BOATWRIGHT / Staff Writer

LEEDS — An unidentified body was found in Carrie Elaine Gentry’s vehicle after it was recovered from an abandoned quarry in Leeds, according to Shelby County Sheriff Chris Curry.

Gentry, a Chelsea resident, was reported missing March 29.

Carrie Elaine Gentry.

The body has been sent to the Jefferson County coroner for identification and an autopsy. The victim will not be identified until after all proper notifications have been made, Curry said.

The vehicle, a 2002 Lexus RX300, will undergo a forensic examination.

According to Curry, the front end of the vehicle was “crashed in,” as the vehicle moved from the top of a 60-foot cliff. He also said the vehicle must have hit the wall at least twice on the way down the incline, and the vehicle was upside down when discovered in about 40 feet of water.

Shelby County District Attorney Robby Owens said there was “no question” about the death being a homicide. Curry agreed.

“There’s no question foul play was involved,” Curry said.

Anyone with any information about Gentry’s disappearance is asked to contact CrimeStoppers by calling 254-7777 or by going to the website at Metrocrimetips.com. All tips are anonymous, and anyone giving a tip that helps to solve the crime may receive a cash reward.