Human remains found on property of missing Ohio woman’s ex-boyfriend

KETTERING, Ohio (TMX/WOIO) - Authorities in Ohio have confirmed the discovery of human remains in the backyard of a residence connected to the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Nicole Slusser.

The Kettering Police Department initially took a report on June 2 regarding a potential missing person, but at the time, lacked sufficient evidence to classify it as an active case. Roughly a week later, after gathering new information, Slusser was formally entered into the national missing persons database. While her family reported not seeing her since December, other witnesses suggested she may have been seen as recently as April, police said at the time.

Investigators identified Slusser’s ex-boyfriend, Shane Smith, as a possible suspect. Smith was already under investigation in a separate domestic violence matter involving another victim. On June 17, armed with both a search warrant for Smith’s residence on Mini Court and arrest warrants for charges of domestic violence and strangulation, law enforcement executed a large-scale operation that included the Kettering Regional SWAT, Dayton SWAT, a Hostage/Crisis Negotiation Team, the Drone Unit, and state investigators from BCI.

Investigators identified Nicole Slusser’s ex-boyfriend, Shane Smith, as a possible suspect.(Source: Kettering Police Dept.)

Three individuals exited the residence and confirmed to authorities that Smith was inside. Given his history, including previous encounters with police and known possession of ballistic vests, Smith was considered armed and dangerous. After an eight-hour standoff, he was found inside the home and taken into custody without further incident.

During the subsequent search of the property, investigators discovered what appeared to be human remains in the backyard. The search was paused, and the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office was called in to confirm the discovery. The remains were verified as human, and the coroner will now oversee the forensic and investigative aspects of the case moving forward.

Smith is currently charged with domestic violence, strangulation, and obstructing official business. Police say additional charges are pending as the investigation progresses.

TMX contributed to this report.