TN Arrest in Pineville Homicide

A homicide investigation originating in Pineville, Kentucky, concluded with an arrest over 400 miles away in Clarksville, Tennessee. Authorities identified DeMarcus Kenneth Johnson-Wright as the suspect in the death of April Barlow Celio, 41. Celio was found deceased September 23 at a Pineville home.

Investigators determined Celio was pregnant at the time of her death. Fetal remains were later located at the crime scene. Johnson-Wright, who had outstanding violent felony warrants in Tennessee, was arrested by U.S. Marshals at a Clarksville residence after a weeklong investigation. Officials recovered case-related materials at the Tennessee home.

Johnson-Wright is held at the Montgomery County Detention Center. He faces charges in Kentucky including first-degree robbery, kidnapping, murder-domestic violence, and tampering with physical evidence. He awaits extradition to Kentucky as the investigation continues.

Local advocates stressed that domestic violence and its risks, particularly during pregnancy, transcend state lines. They urge anyone in an unsafe situation to seek help. Information on local resources for survivors of domestic violence is available through community outreach programs.