After 18 years, a Georgia cold case of a woman found dismembered has finally been solved — and the details are beyond disturbing.
Authorities say Angel Thompson brutally killed her girlfriend, 24-year-old Nicole Alston, in 2007, dismembered her body, and then stole her identity to collect more than $200,000 in federal benefits.
According to Atlanta News First, Alston’s remains were found in December 2007 on the side of a Georgia road inside a burning bag. Her head, hands, and feet had been removed, making it impossible for investigators to identify her at the time.
For nearly two decades, the case remained unsolved until 2023, when advances in DNA technology confirmed the remains belonged to Alston.
Investigators say Alston had moved from New York to Georgia with Thompson that same year to start a new life.
Thompson allegedly had outstanding warrants in New York, and their relationship turned abusive soon after the move. Authorities allege that when Alston tried to leave, Thompson killed her, cut off her head, arms, and feet, stuffed her body in a bag, and set it on fire.
In the years following the killing, Thompson allegedly assumed Alston’s identity, fraudulently collecting Social Security benefits, food stamps, and Section 8 housing assistance for eight years. The total value of the fraud is estimated at $200,000.
Thompson was first arrested in 2023 for concealing Alston’s death.
Two years later, in 2025, she was officially charged with murder and two counts of identity theft.
For Alston’s family, the arrest brings long-awaited closure after years of heartbreak.
“I wish I’d never let her come to Georgia,” said Alston’s mom at a press conference.
