Asha Degree, a 9-year-old girl from Shelby, North Carolina, vanished under mysterious circumstances on February 14, 2000. In the early hours of that day, Asha reportedly left her home of her own accord. Despite stormy weather, she packed her bookbag and left the house on foot around 4 a.m., as witnessed by a passing motorist. The driver noted that she was walking along Highway 18, just outside of Shelby, but did not stop to approach her. This sighting was the last confirmed instance of Asha being seen by anyone.