Clinton “Clint” Bonnell, a decorated 50-year-old Green Beret, was found brutally murdered just weeks after retiring from the military and planning to divorce his wife. His dismembered torso was discovered in a pond near his North Carolina home, sparking a chilling investigation that led to the arrest of his estranged wife, Shana Cloud.
Bonnell, who was studying to become a physician’s assistant at Methodist University, had told his girlfriend, Kelli Edwards, that he’d met with a divorce attorney and informed Cloud of his decision. The next day, he vanished. Edwards reported him missing after he stopped responding to texts, and the university also raised concerns.
Authorities later found his mutilated remains in a pond, confirming through DNA it was Bonnell. Court documents allege Cloud confronted him the day he disappeared and was later spotted near the pond where his body was dumped. She was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and concealment of death.
Bonnell’s family called him a hero and vowed to seek justice: “He gave so much to this world, only to have his life stolen in such an evil way.”
Now, the military and local community mourn the loss of a patriot — while a courtroom awaits justice.
