Missing Woman Found in 'Makeshift Tomb'

Mug shot of 30-year-old Devontae Gray. Photo courtesy of Prince George’s County Police Department.

The chilling discovery of a missing woman’s body in a “makeshift tomb” has left many questioning how well they truly know those closest to them. When 30-year-old Alexis Schuler vanished, her family feared the worst. Those fears were confirmed when authorities unearthed her remains behind a newly constructed wall inside her boyfriend’s home.

A Chilling Discovery

On Jan. 14, 2025, Alexis Schuler was reported missing after her boyfriend, 30-year-old Devontae Gray, contacted her mother, Tiwana Schuler, inquiring about her whereabouts. Alarmed, Tiwana immediately reported her daughter missing, prompting an investigation.

Five days later, on Jan. 19, authorities executed a search warrant at Gray’s residence, uncovering a shocking scene. Behind a newly constructed wall, they found Alexis’ remains concealed in what they described as a “makeshift tomb.” Hidden beneath the stairs, her body had been stuffed into a plastic storage bin, encased in concrete, and further concealed behind drywall with fake bricks. The area was covered with soil and hay in an apparent attempt to hide the crime.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner later confirmed that Alexis had been shot. Gray, the father of one of Alexis’ children, had a tumultuous history with her. Investigators believe the murder occurred during a heated dispute. Records show a pattern of domestic violence between the two. Just days before her disappearance, Gray had called the police on Jan. 9, claiming he feared for his safety and warning that he might shoot Alexis if she entered his home.

Gray was ultimately taken into custody, where he reportedly confessed to the murder. He now faces charges of first-degree murder and related offenses.

A Mother’s Warning Ignored

Before Alexis’ disappearance, her mother had expressed concerns about Gray, urging her daughter to be cautious and that she did not trust him. Tragically, those concerns turned into a devastating reality when law enforcement uncovered the extent of Gray’s alleged actions.

Justice for Alexis

Gray remains in custody, facing a murder charge as prosecutors work to build their case. Meanwhile, Alexis’ family and friends continue to grieve, expressing how deeply she will be missed and how her absence has left an irreplaceable void in their lives. Schuler’s cousin, Derrick Felder told news outlet WJLA, “Alexis’ story is a painful reminder this is not what love looks like. Someone who truly loves you would never do what Devontae Gray did to her. Please take domestic violence seriously.”

The tragedy of Alexis Schuler serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that can exist behind closed doors. As the legal battle for justice continues, her story echoes a sobering question - how well do we really know the people around us?

If you or someone you know is in need of support from domestic violence, contact The National Hotline or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

References: After Missing Woman Is Found in ‘Makeshift Tomb,’ Boyfriend Is Charged - and Mom Had Warned Her to ‘Be Careful’ | Man accused of hiding missing girlfriend’s body behind newly built wall in his home