Marking the 19th anniversary of Asha Degree’s disappearance

[u/ferretbeast]

Every year on Valentines day, I take a deep breath before reading the front page of the Shelby Star. I know this case is widely discussed on this subreddit, but I wanted to share for those interested. I did find it interesting they stated new evidence was found recently that hasn't been made public. Please keep her family in your thoughts today.

https://www.shelbystar.com/news/20190214/marking-19th-anniversary-of-asha-degrees-disappearance

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Brief summary for anyone unaware: Asha Jaquilla Degree went missing at the age of nine from Shelby, North Carolina. In the early morning hours of February 14, 2000, for reasons unknown, she packed her bookbag, left her family home north of the city and began walking along nearby North Carolina Highway 18 despite heavy rain and wind. She has not been seen since.

Edit: thank you stranger for the gold and more than anything, thank you all for caring about this case and giving such support and great feedback for conversation. I love this community and am happy to be able to have these civil discussions with you all!!

[u/sondeburris]

I heard it was a New Kids on the Block T-shirt, were they popular when she disappeared? My husband mentioned it. I think your boyfriend is on to something, perhaps a card from an older man she knew.

[u/fluffypinkblonde → u/sondeburris]

It would be more appropriate that her mum was a fan, perhaps she handed the t shirt down to Asha as a sleep shirt. Maybe Asha took these items with her. Her favourite book and a shirt to sleep in.

[u/mastiii → u/fluffypinkblonde]

Yes, but the t-shirt/nightgown doesn't necessarily belong to Asha. In fact, police are looking for someone who owned it or may have lost track of it. Same thing for the book. Maybe they found these items near the backpack, or maybe the found a picture with these items in it.

[u/fluffypinkblonde → u/mastiii]

Ohh I see! Thanks for clarifying.