Manhunt suspended: Capital murder suspect disappears on day of trial
Capital murder suspect disappears on day of trial
The Van Zandt County Sheriff's Office has suspended the search for a man who removed his ankle monitor and did not show up for his murder trial on Monday morning.
Trevor McEuen (Van Zandt County Sheriff's Office)
VAN ZANDT COUNTY, Texas - Authorities in Kaufman and Van Zandt counties have suspended a manhunt for a man who removed his ankle monitor and did not show up for his murder trial on Monday morning.
Manhunt for Capital Murder Suspect
The Latest:
Trevor McEuen, 32, has an active warrant for his arrest for violating his bond conditions.
Sheriff's deputies searched the area of U.S. Hwy. 80 east of Grand Saline on Monday morning. Police dogs also joined the search.
At 1 p.m., they suspended their search in Van Zandt County because they believe McEuen has now left the area.
Authorities said they thoroughly searched the area and there is no immediate threat.
What you can do:
Kaufman County Sheriff Bryan Beavers is putting up a $10,000 reward for information as to where McEuen is.
Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts should contact the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office at 469-376-4500 immediately or reach out to Kaufman County Crime Stoppers.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and not approach McEuen.
What they're saying:
According to the Kaufman County Sheriff's Office, McEuen was staying with relatives in nearby Van Zandt County while awaiting trial.
He removed his court-ordered ankle monitor at 5:33 a.m. on Monday and allegedly set the house on fire before officers arrived.
"I think he's been planning this from day one when he got out. He's got nothing to lose. Our next step now is we are looking at whatever digital evidence there is. We are using every piece of equipment and technology there is. There's not an agency that I don't get along with and don't work real well with. We've got everyone possible to get involved," Sheriff Beavers said.
Kaufman County District Attorney Erleigh Wiley said it's not clear whether McEuen fled on foot or in a vehicle, and there's no description of the clothing he may be wearing. Authorities also have not confirmed whether he is armed.
"Your assistance is vital to ensuring community safety and aiding law enforcement in locating and apprehending the fugitive," Wiley said in a statement.
"Our number one priority is the safety of all citizens of Van Zandt County. We are working diligently with our partner agencies to ensure the safety of all our citizens," added Van Zandt County Sheriff Kevin Bridger.
Trevor McEuen
The backstory:
McEuen is accused of shooting and killing his neighbor, Aaron Martinez, on Neal Road in Forney on May 1, 2023.
Investigators said he shot 35-year-old Martinez multiple times and then admitted to the murder after a SWAT standoff.
Forney murder suspect's push to reduce $2 million bond rejected by judge
Trevor McEuen is in the Kaufman County jail after allegedly shooting his neighbor, 35-year-old Aaron Martinez on May 1. Martinez's family members say he was hit 17 times.
Last May, a judge refused to reduce McEuen's $2 million bond.
In September, he posted that bond and was released from jail. Then a week later, he violated his terms.
McEuen was released again after posting another $2 million bond in December.
Capital Murder Trial
The capital murder jury trial for McEuen was scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. on Monday. Court documents show there were jury selections for the trial on February 26 and again on April 30.
McEuen is facing charges of capital murder, four counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and murder.
The trial will have to be rescheduled after he is captured, and another jury will have to be selected.
The Source: Information in this article is from the Van Zandt County Sheriff's Office.