Marion, Alabama – State investigators are asking for the public’s help today as a homicide investigation in Perry County expands into a nationwide search for a person of interest with connections outside Alabama.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), special agents with the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) launched a homicide investigation Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the request of the Perry County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation centers on the death of Jeffery Holifield, 68, of Marion.
Holifield was found deceased in the 2000 block of Onrow Tubbs Road in Marion, a rural area within Perry County. Authorities have not released details about the cause of death, citing the ongoing investigation.
ALEA said investigators have identified Anastassja “Anya” or “Tess” Cooper, 32, of Marion, as a person of interest in the case. Officials emphasized that Cooper is being sought for questioning as part of the homicide investigation.
The SBI has expanded its search nationwide after determining Cooper may have traveled out of state. According to ALEA, she was recently seen in San Mateo, California, and may have family or personal connections in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Oregon.
Cooper is described as a white female with brown hair and brown eyes, standing approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing about 216 pounds. Investigators say she may be traveling with a mixed-breed dog named “Banana.”
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone who sees Cooper or has information about her whereabouts to contact the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation at 334-850-0910. Tips can be provided directly to SBI investigators.
Authorities say the investigation remains active and ongoing.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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