An Ohio man was convicted this week for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, Allyson Lorenz, whom he beat, killed, and dismembered over a three-day period in 2021.
Eric Ward, 36, was found guilty of aggravated murder and gross abuse of a corpse after a shocking series of events, with prosecutors describing his actions as merciless and horrific.
The Brutal Attack on Allyson Lorenz
According to court documents, Ward, who was in a romantic relationship with 32-year-old Lorenz, “mercilessly beat” her between September 25 and September 27, 2021.
The attack took place at her home, where Ward threw Lorenz to the ground, pummeling her until she was gasping for breath. Ward then placed a wet washcloth over her mouth, which caused her to suffocate as a result of what prosecutors described as “agonal breathing.” Lorenz eventually died from her injuries.
Dismembering the Body
After Lorenz’s death, Ward and his associate, Heather Baker, took steps to cover up the crime. According to prosecutors, Ward took Baker to a hardware store where they purchased an ax, shears, and cleaning supplies.
Baker, who was also attacked by Ward during the ordeal, helped him dismember Lorenz’s body. The pair then transported the remains to a storage unit they rented at a U-Haul facility, where they disposed of the pieces.
Discovery of Lorenz’s Body
Ward’s criminal activities initially came to light when authorities began investigating him for drug-related offenses. While searching properties connected to him, investigators found a receipt for a storage unit and later discovered Lorenz’s dismembered body inside a garage at a home Ward used for selling drugs.
The garage contained evidence of the crime, including the tools used for dismemberment — a Blue Kobalt ax and Corona shears.
Web Searches and Further Evidence
Prosecutors revealed that Ward and Baker made multiple internet searches related to DNA evidence and blood cleanup following the murder. These actions further linked them to the crime and their efforts to hide the evidence.
Legal Proceedings
Ward’s trial faced complications, including threats to a juror during the initial trial, leading to the case being retried. The second trial, which resulted in his conviction, concluded with Ward being found guilty of aggravated murder and other charges.
Baker, who cooperated with authorities, pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence and abuse of a corpse.
Ward’s conviction marks the end of a harrowing legal battle, bringing justice to the victim, Allyson Lorenz, and her family.
The case has shocked the local community, highlighting the disturbing level of violence and manipulation involved in Ward’s actions. It also serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of controlling and abusive relationships.
