Abilene Police Provide Update on Real Estate Agent Murder Investigation

ABILENE, TX – At 6:18 a.m. this morning, Abilene Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in the 3700 block of Woodridge Drive near 114^th Street and River Oaks Drive. The shooting left one man and a family dog dead, according to a KTXS news report.

Tom Niblo, 54, vice president and commercial agent for Senter Realtors, was found dead at his home. Niblo’s wife told police that she had heard someone break into their home as well as gunshots. Fortunately, she was able to exit the house and escape from the intruders, but her husband and their dog weren't as fortunate.

Abilene police spokesman Rick Tomlin told KTXS that this incident is currently under investigation as a homicide. Niblo’s wife is currently in protective custody and will be among those questioned, added Tomlin.

UPDATE Dec. 14 @ 5:40 p.m.

Today, the Abilene Police announced that an arrest was made in the homicide of 54-year-old Tom Niblo. Luke Matthew Sweetser of Abilene was arrested after Abilene Police "executed more than a dozen search warrants, recovered and categorized more than 100 pieces of evidence, and spent hundreds of hours running down all leads."

"APD wishes to thank the community for many good tips," Abilene Police said in a press release. "An arrest has been made in relation to this investigation. The arrests stems from a weapons offense, but APD cannot comment further."

Officials said they appreciate everyone's patience as the department works diligently to solve this crime.

Update Dec. 22 @ 4:35 p.m.

Today, Abilene Police Chief Stan Standridge said detectives with the Criminal Investigations Division have served nearly two dozen subpoenas and/or search warrants.

"At least 12 detectives and supervisors have worked non-stop on this investigation since its inception," Standridge said. "They have worked closely with the family, working to ensure all leads were fully vetted. Detectives are examining financial documents related to the investigation, while also forensically evaluating phones and computers."

He added that detectives worked with the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Dive Team this week to ensure no evidence was left undiscovered near the victim’s residence. Additional searches have also occurred elsewhere in Abilene. Additionally, DNA analysis has been requested on items of evidence, but the turnaround time can take weeks or months. 

"Many citizens have called the Department and reported suspicious circumstances that may or may not be related to this case, which is appreciated," stated Standridge. "We ask all residents in this neighborhood to contact us if they have street-facing video that may be of assistance to the Department."  

The Chief also said the Abilene Police Department is fully committed to solving this murder, and more information will be provided as the investigation continues.