Did Angel Marie Thompson Target Nicole Alston? Here's What We Know

Identification of Remains

The remains of Nicole Alston, found dismembered and burned in Hogansville, Georgia in 2007, were identified in 2023 using genealogy databases. Authorities discovered that her girlfriend, Angel Marie Thompson, had been living under Alston's identity for nearly 17 years.

Exploitation of Identity

Angel Marie Thompson accessed Alston's social security benefits, housing assistance, car, and job by impersonating her. The two first met in New York City before moving to Georgia, where Alston was isolated from acquaintances who might have noticed her absence.

Sheryl McCollum from the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute noted that Alston's vulnerabilities made her a target for Thompson. Alston was legally blind and without close family ties, which facilitated Thompson's exploitation.

Investigative Discoveries

In December 2007, pieces of Alston’s body were discovered in garbage bags. Investigators faced challenges due to the lack of identifying features but managed to extract DNA from the remains.

Troup County Sheriff Clay Bryant pointed out irregularities when no missing persons report matched the discovered remains. In time, investigators contacted Alston’s surviving relatives to confirm her identity.

McCollum speculated that others might have fallen victim to Thompson and urged anyone with relevant information to come forward.