Overview of the Case

The estranged wife of Clinton Bonnell, a retired Green Beret who had been missing since late January, has been charged with his murder. Shana Cloud now faces allegations of first-degree murder and concealment of death as the investigation unfolds.

Timeline of Events

Clinton Bonnell, 50 years old and a former U.S. Army Special Forces medic, was reported missing on January 28 after failing to attend a class related to his physician assistant program at Methodist University. A welfare check was conducted at the request of Bonnell’s girlfriend, during which Cloud claimed she had not seen him since the previous day.

Authorities began to piece together Bonnell’s last known movements following several search warrants executed in February. This included investigations at Cloud’s residence and examinations of digital communications and phone logs.

Discovery of Remains

On February 25, nearly a month after Bonnell’s disappearance, human remains were discovered in a pond by a property owner in Cumberland County. The remains were in a condition that delayed immediate identification. DNA testing was conducted to confirm the deceased’s identity.

By March 28, the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System verified that the remains belonged to Bonnell, leading to Cloud’s arrest on charges related to his death.

Background on Clinton Bonnell

Bonnell served honorably in the U.S. Army Special Forces, enlisting in September 2004 and retiring as a sergeant first-class in December 2024. His service included two deployments to Iraq between 2010 and 2018. Notably, Bonnell’s disappearance coincided with a meeting he had with an attorney regarding divorce proceedings.

Current Legal Status

Following her arrest, Cloud has been denied bail by a judge and remains incarcerated while awaiting further legal proceedings.