Torrey Damien Moore, 34, was sentenced this week to three consecutive life sentences for murdering his pregnant girlfriend, living with her corpse, and later killing a store clerk in Maryland.
Timeline of the Tragic Events
According to Montgomery County State’s Attorney John McCarthy, Moore’s girlfriend, Denise Middleton, was last seen alive in early October 2024. She was eight months pregnant when Moore allegedly murdered her.
During Moore’s absence from the area, authorities discovered that he made internet searches about how long a body takes to start smelling, and researched legal defenses including an insanity plea.
Living With the Victim’s Corpse
Moore later returned to Maryland and stayed in the apartment where Middleton’s body was found. In December, Moore escalated his violent actions by shooting and killing Ayalew Wondimu, a convenience store clerk located across from the apartment.
Evidence and Arrest
Security footage identified Moore as a suspect in Wondimu’s murder. Police executed a no-knock search warrant on Moore’s apartment and found him sleeping nearby, with the handgun used in the killing close by.
Gruesome Discovery
Officers reported a strong and terrible odor upon entering the apartment, which was due to the presence of Middleton’s decomposing body. The horrifying details shocked all involved.
Sentencing and Parole Possibility
Moore received three consecutive life sentences, with State’s Attorney McCarthy noting that Moore will likely not be eligible for parole until he is in his 90s.