Man arrested in 1981 Mansfield kidnapping case

An unsolved kidnapping case from more than 30 years ago is now a murder investigation in Mansfield.

When Anthony Woodson, 5, disappeared in 1981 the boy's uncle told police he was taken from his truck while he was at a convenience store. But now decades later, detectives say the uncle’s story didn’t add up.

Terry Woodson, now 64, has been arrested for murdering his nephew.

Police reopened the case last year and re-interviewed Woodson several more times. They say each time his story unraveled and he eventually admitted to beating his nephew with an electrical cord to discipline him.

“We are happy we are able to give Anthony a voice. His voice has been silent for almost 37 years and it’s time for us to get his story out and allow him to be heard,” said Det. Tom Hewitt.

Woodson's sister, who he was living with at the time of his arrest, says she doesn't believe he did it and she doesn't believe the child is dead. She says her brother, who has failing health, relented under police pressure.

“If he confessed to that, he's tired because after my mama died he feels like he's a burden because I have to take care of him,” said Merlene Woodson Murkledove.

Police said Woodson took them to a location where the boy’s body was disposed of, but after extensive digging police were unable to turn up remains.