A suspected murderer died of a heart attack while attempting to drag his girlfriend's body through the woods after strangling her, according to an autopsy report. Daniel Robbins, 44, and mother-of-three Jessica Folds, 47, were discovered deceased in a wooded area in Lanett, Alabama, on June 10.
Chambers County Sheriff Jeff Nelson reported that Folds was found with her hands raised over her head, and Robbins was discovered nearby in a fetal position. Investigators noted a "drag path" at the scene, indicating an attempt to move Folds' body. An autopsy confirmed Folds died from strangulation.
Authorities suspect Robbins killed Folds during a domestic incident the night before her body was found. District Attorney Mike Segrest told AL.com that police believe Robbins was trying to dispose of Folds' remains when he suffered a fatal heart attack. "He died of a heart attack while doing it," Segrest stated. "Their bodies were right there together."
Police were alerted to the wooded area around noon on June 10 when a passerby reported an abandoned pickup truck. The truck was found running with the driver's side door open and the tailgate down. Investigators followed drag marks leading from the tailgate into the brush where the couple was found. The passerby initially mistook the remains for mannequins.
Robbins had a pre-existing heart condition, according to his ex-wife, though officials have not confirmed if this contributed to his death. Folds resided a few miles from the location where her body was discovered. She and Robbins, who was from Macon, Georgia, were in a relationship. Public records indicate Folds' husband of five years died in February 2025.
Folds is survived by three adult sons and two grandchildren. Her obituary described her as having a "heart of gold, deep love for everyone, and smile that brightened the world." Robbins had one daughter. His now-removed obituary mentioned his love for the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and racing, and noted his skills in welding, farming, and working on vehicles.
The motive for Folds' death remains under investigation.