FRANKLIN COUNTY, Ky. — A Georgia family says they are struggling to find closure after learning that the suspect in a deadly Dalton house fire and homicide died in a violent crash while fleeing police in Kentucky.
Authorities have identified the man killed in the crash as Ryan Ebler, who investigators say was the primary suspect in the death of Crystal Scotten, a Dalton woman killed in November. Ebler died after a crash on Interstate 64 near Lexington, according to the Franklin County Coroner’s Office.
Kentucky State Police confirmed Ebler was being pursued after being identified as a homicide suspect in Georgia. Investigators say he was driving Scotten’s stolen vehicle when he crossed the center line and collided with a tractor-trailer. Ebler died from injuries sustained in the crash. The crash investigation remains ongoing.
Dalton police say Ebler was connected to a homicide and arson at a residence on Grimes Street, where Scotten was found dead following a fire. Police were alerted after a woman called authorities requesting a welfare check, saying her brother had confessed to killing his girlfriend at the home.
Scotten’s sister, Sarah Hunter, said the family was devastated when they learned the truth.
“Other people knew she was being abused, but they were more concerned about her feelings than her safety,” Hunter said. “That’s heartbreaking when we talk about domestic violence.”
Dalton officials confirmed there had been prior reports of domestic disturbances at the residence, though no formal police reports were filed at the time.
Hunter said Ebler contacted family members after the incident, providing a fabricated story about how Scotten died. Hours later, law enforcement notified the family of her death and Ebler’s alleged involvement.
Crystal Scotten’s mother, Kimberly, described her daughter as a loving and vibrant person.
“She was a kind young woman with a great sense of humor who loved life,” she said. “She leaves behind two young daughters whom she adored. Our lives will never be the same.”
Final autopsy results for Scotten are expected within 14 to 16 weeks. Authorities in Georgia and Kentucky say investigations into the homicide, arson, and fatal crash are ongoing.
While the suspect’s death ends the possibility of criminal prosecution, Scotten’s family says the pain — and unanswered questions — remain.
