Skip to Main Content

Unsolved Cases

Unsolved Cases text
The Mission of the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit is to solve homicides and vigorously pursue, apprehend and successfully prosecute those who commit murder and to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves by seeking answers and justice for victims and their families.

The Tom Green County Sheriff's Office established it's Cold Case Unit in 2013 to systematically review unsolved homicide cases dating back to 1987. TGCSO Investigators focus resources on those cases with the highest probability of being solved with fresh leads and new forensic technologies. In many cases, biological evidence is still present allowing recent advances in DNA testing to bring those responsible to justice.

The CCU is comprised of Tom Green County Sheriff's Office investigators, retired investigators, reserve deputies, a crime analyst and forensic experts. Information that at one time may have seemed insignificant could prove to be the missing element in solving an open case when combined with new tips and leads. The public is urged to submit any information they feel may be important to a case.  The information may be submitted anonymously.

The below listed cases remain unsolved:

Shane Stewart & Sally McNelly

Shane Stewart/Sally McNelly July 4th, 1988 (Double Homicide)

Sketch poster

John Doe 1 – Skeletal Remains located November 15th, 1987 (DPS Facial Reconstruction)

John Doe II – Skeletal Remains located December 2nd, 1996 (DPS Facial Reconstruction ongoing as of 12/30/15)

In every case, there is someone in our community who holds information that may be significant in solving a case. Relationships change over time and many cold cases are solved when a former witness, friend or relative is located who is tired of hiding information that may bring a killer to justice. New forensic tools that may not have existed when the crime occurred are now available to locate evidence that was previously thought to be undetectable. The CCU reviews all original case files with fresh eyes and viewpoints. This may disclose gaps and leads which were overlooked or missed when the crime was first committed. New national databases may connect local homicides with other cases across the country. 

If you believe that you have information on any unsolved case you are encouraged to contact Lieutenant Terry Lowe at the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office (325) 655-8111

Crime Tip Hotline
Submit Via Email