Prayer vigil held for Allisha Watts following release of autopsy

MOORE COUNTY, N.C. — A prayer vigil for Allisha Watts was held Thursday night on West New York Avenue in Southern Pines.

She had been missing since July 2023 after being last seen leaving the Charlotte home of her ex-boyfriend, James Dunmore. Her remains were discovered in August 2023 in Montgomery County.

The vigil comes after the autopsy report for Watts was released on Wednesday.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: ‘Hoping for more’: Allisha Watts’ autopsy leaves many questions

The medical examiner said Watts’ body was so badly decomposed, that the cause of death was ruled undetermined.

It was a crushing blow to loved ones because it was not considered a homicide.

“We thought we (were) in the clear with as far as the evidence,” said Tea Hines, a cousin.

Hines said she read the entire autopsy report.

“A month and eight days is not long enough for the body to not have skin and it be 38 pounds in bones,” Hines said.

Dunmore, the prime suspect, may ask for his bond to be reduced since the autopsy was inconclusive.

Hines is optimistic that justice will be served.

“I’m pretty sure and I’m praying to God that they use other evidence to hold him in jail, besides an autopsy report, like her car, his clothes,” Hines said.

Thursday night’s vigil was a chance to bring awareness.

“This gives the community the opportunity to come together to share stories about her, to show the family that we’re supporting her, but also to remind ourselves that when you’re in a crisis, it helps to have friends, it helps to have friends that you don’t even know,” said Dot Brower, Watts’ mentor.

Watts’ supporters have planned another vigil for Friday at the Montgomery County Courthouse, which is where they will be when Dunmore has his next expected court hearing on Monday.

VIDEO: ‘Hoping for more’: Allisha Watts’ autopsy leaves many questions