In an autopsy report acquired by the Associated Press, the kindergarten teacher died from a gunshot wound to the back of her head, as well as “blunt-force injuries to her right leg and jaw fractured.
According to Memphis police, Fletcher was out running on Sept. 2 when a security footage from the location showed a person approaching her and forcing her into the back of an SUV.
Cleotha Abston was accused for abduction and tampering with evidence in connection with her disappearance two days later. When her corpse was discovered, she was charged with first-degree murder and first-degree murder in the commission of kidnapping.
Following the passing of Fletcher, many condolences from friends and family began to come in. “Liza was such a joy to so many—her family, friends, colleagues, students, parents, members of her Second Presbyterian Church congregation, and everyone who knew her. on sep. 6 a statement from her family read “Now it’s time to remember and celebrate how special she was and to support those who cared so much for her.”
Although “Liza didn’t have the CV of a global changer,” senior pastor George Robertson told mourners, the effect she made in her community was insurmountable. “She struggled through school and her college soccer career was cut short. She battled her way to finish college” he added, according to the New York Post. “Then she got her master’s degree and married Richie and had her beautiful boys and became a kindergarten teacher.”
“She was a light and also a joy. It is right for us to grieve, but let us grieve with hope. Let’s carry on the legacy of our dear sister.” he added.