New developments have emerged in a Vermont decease investigation after authorities confirmed the case has been ruled a homicide.
The Vermont State Police announced that an autopsy conducted on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office in Burlington identified the victim as 79-year-old Alton Wheeler of Brownington.
According to officials, the medical examiner determined that Wheeler died as a result of a fatal injury to the neck. Authorities have classified the manner of death as a homicide.
Investigators have not yet shared full details about what led to the incident, as the case remains under active investigation.
A suspect in the case, 43-year-old Ariana Rodger of Newport, appeared in court the same day for arraignment. Court officials confirmed that she pleaded not guilty to the charges filed against her.
Following the hearing, a judge ordered that Rodger be held without bail while the case proceeds through the legal system.
Authorities say additional information related to the investigation is included in a probable cause affidavit that has been filed with the court. However, further specifics have not been widely released at this time.
The Vermont State Police continue to work on the case and are expected to provide updates as new details emerge. At this stage, officials have not disclosed further information about the relationship between those involved or the events leading up to the incident.
The case remains ongoing, with more developments anticipated as the investigation and court proceedings continue.
