In a shocking turn of events, authorities revealed that two Kansas women who had gone missing during an attempt to pick up children for a birthday party were killed as a result of a custody dispute involving a self-proclaimed anti-government group called "God's Misfits." The incident unfolded two weeks ago and has left the community in shock.

Veronica Butler, 27, and Jilian Kelley, 39, both residents of Hugoton, Kansas, had arranged to meet Butler's two children's grandmother at a highway intersection on the morning of March 30. However, their vehicle was discovered later that day along a rural Oklahoma highway, bearing signs of a violent confrontation. This prompted a comprehensive search operation to locate the missing women and ensure the safety of the children involved.

Unfortunately, on Monday, authorities announced that the case had ended in tragedy. Aungela Spurlock, Director of the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, expressed his condolences, stating, "This case did not end the way we had hoped. It's certainly been a tragedy for everyone involved."

Following thorough investigations, four individuals were arrested on Saturday on charges of kidnapping and first-degree murder. Among those arrested were Tifany Adams, 54, the grandmother of Butler's children, her boyfriend Tad Cullum, 43, as well as Cora Twombly, 44, and her husband Cole Twombly, 50. Court records indicate that these individuals were part of the "God's Misfits" group.

Details surrounding the incident reveal that Butler and Adams were engaged in a contentious custody battle. Adams's son was receiving treatment at a rehabilitation facility in Oklahoma City, while Butler was limited to supervised visitations every Saturday. Kelley, who was married to a pastor in Hugoton, had been court-authorized to supervise the visitations.

The investigation revealed that the killings had been planned by Adams, who had purchased disposable cell phones and stun guns for communication and potential use of force. Additionally, a witness stated that Cora Twombly had discussed throwing an anvil through Butler's windshield, making it appear like an accident.

The bodies of the two victims were found in undisclosed locations, though evidence suggests that some of the cell phones stopped transmitting in the vicinity of a rented pasture where a hole had been dug and subsequently covered with hay.

The safety of the children involved was the top priority for law enforcement, who successfully ensured their well-being without any incidents. The four individuals arrested in connection with the murders are currently being held without bond at the Texas County Jail, with court appearances scheduled for Wednesday.

More information regarding the identities of the victims, causes of death, and the ongoing investigation is pending the medical examiner's report.

This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers that can arise from custody disputes and the unfortunate consequences that can result from extreme actions taken by individuals involved. The community mourns the loss of two lives and hopes for justice to be served as the legal process unfolds.