Body Found in Ozona Connected to Grandfather Missing from Bandera

BANDERA, TX — Robert “Bob” Isaacks, an 88-year-old Air Force veteran, Texas A&M grad, and retired manufacturing engineer, lived an active life marked by dedication and affection for his family and passions. An avid hunter and Houston Astros fan, Isaacks moved to Bandera to live with his daughter after his wife of 66 years passed away in March. This move, intended for safety compared to the crowded Energy Corridor in west Houston, tragically led to unforeseen events.

Isaacks, who kept himself engaged post-retirement with his property, The Pistol Ranch, in Val Verde County, vanished under mysterious circumstances. Stephanie Holan, Isaacks' granddaughter and an attorney, reported to KENS-5 in San Antonio that Isaacks was last seen entering his daughter's home with a woman unknown to the family on November 15. This was captured on a Ring doorbell camera, which two hours later captured on film only the woman, now in different clothing and removing black gloves, leaving the house. Isaacks’ belongings, including his cell phone, were left behind, indicating an unplanned departure.

Isaacks’ green 2006 Jeep Wrangler, distinctively adorned with a large, yellow “Pistol Ranch” wheel cover, was reported missing along with him.

A body wrapped in a tarp and duct-taped, discovered on November 17 between Interstate-10 and the service road just east of Ozona, was identified as Isaacks yesterday, as confirmed by the Bandera County Sheriff’s Office and an autopsy. This discovery has escalated the investigation to a murder case.

The primary suspect is the woman seen on the Ring doorbell footage. The sheriff said her name is Freda Michelle Thomas. The Bandera County Sheriff has issued a murder warrant for Thomas, but details about her beyond a photograph have not been disclosed. Law enforcement officers recognized Thomas from the video having known of her prior to this incident.

The search is ongoing for both Isaacks’ distinctive Jeep and Thomas. The public is urged to assist by providing any relevant information to the Bandera County Sheriff’s Office at (830) 796-3771 or local law enforcement. However, the authorities caution against approaching Thomas, considering her potentially dangerous.