A Florida woman has been arrested in connection with the alleged murder of her on-again/off-again boyfriend who disappeared earlier this month. Authorities issued arrest warrants for Caylen Deller, 30, and Tina Marie Lee-Ellis, 56, in relation to the case.
Chad Mullen, 53, was reported missing on September 15 after he failed to attend his brother's wedding in Texas. It was suspected that Mullen was last seen alive on September 9 while traveling with Deller, with whom he had an on-again/off-again relationship, to a location near Deller’s business.
The body of Mullen was discovered in Florida following a tip received by authorities. The discovery was made by a mechanic/equipment operator who noticed an unusual dirt pile off the side of a rural road on a property about a quarter of a mile from the Putnam County line.
Robert Rash, the individual who found the body, described the location of the pile as peculiar due to the absence of any road or drainage in the area. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mullen's death is ongoing.
Lee-Ellis turned herself in on Thursday evening and has been charged with accessory to first-degree murder after the fact. Deller was arrested in Volusia County and charged with first-degree premeditated murder with a firearm.
Chad's daughter, Hollie Mullen, expressed her initial disbelief at her father's disappearance, hoping he would return. The exact duration of the relationship between Deller and Lee-Ellis remains unclear as authorities continue to gather information.
