DPS Seeks Information in Victim's Identity from a Murder Case in Refugio County

The Texas Department of Public Safety is asking for the public’s help in solving the murder of an unidentified woman whose remains were discovered in 1992 in Refugio County. As part of a DPS public awareness program, one unsolved case is featured by the Texas Ranger Unsolved Crimes Investigation Team each month in an effort to generate new investigative leads and bring added attention to unresolved or “cold cases” across the state.

On March 2, 1992, a woman’s remains were found on a ranch approximately four miles east of Refugio in Refugio County, and no identification was found with the victim. Based on forensic examinations, the woman is believed to be white, approximately 20 to 35 years of age and about 5 feet 3 inches tall. 

Clothing found at the scene included a long coat, black leotards, a short black dress, red belt, white knee-high boots and a red earring.  It was estimated the victim’s body had been at the location for approximately one to three years. Based on the skeletal remains, a composite drawing (above) was composed that may resemble the victim

Victoria Crime Stoppers is offering a reward up to $10,000 for information that provides the identity of the victim or identifies the person or persons responsible for her death. To be eligible for the cash reward, the tip must be submitted by contacting Victoria Crime Stoppers either at 361-572-4200 or online at http://victoria.crimestoppersweb.com/. All tips are anonymous.

Individuals can also submit a tip through the Texas Rangers' Cold Case website or contact the Missing Persons Clearinghouse at 1-800-346-3243. 

The Texas Ranger Unsolved Crimes Investigation Team was created to assist Texas law enforcement agencies investigating unsolved murders or what appear to be serial or linked criminal transactions. Since there is no statute of limitations for the offense of murder, investigators pursue these cases to a successful resolution; or until no other lead is viable. 

In addition, DPS created the Texas Rangers’ Unsolved Homicides webpage aimed at renewing public interest in unsolved cases. The site features the division’s Top 12 Unsolved Cold Case Investigations, which includes two cases from each of the state’s six DPS regions. For more information, visit the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website at: http://www.dps.texas.gov/TexasRangers/UnsolvedHomicides/index.htm.