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Donnie D. Foster
SheriffFannin County Sheriffs Office
2375 Silo RoadBonham, Texas 75418
(903) [email protected]
January 19, 2012
Media News Release
On January 18, 2012 Fannin County Sheriffs Office received
information regarding the possibility that threepersons were
missing from a residence in southern Fannin County and that foul
play might be involved.Investigators went to the location to
attempt contact with the residents. Attempts to make contact
withanyone at the residence were unsuccessful.
Due to information received regarding possible foul play,
investigators made entry into the home to check thewelfare of the
homeowners. Investigators did not find anyone in the residence, but
did notice things whichcould indicate that foul play was involved
in the disappearance of the residents.
Investigators have identified the missing persons as Harold
Harpst, age 73; Sue Harpst, age 79 and Suesdaughter Regina Taunton,
age 48, all of the residence.
Due to evidence discovered inside the residence, this
investigation is being conducted as a homicideinvestigation. The
overwhelming evidence led to the issuance of an arrest warrant for
Thomas LloydTaunton, age 52. Teletypes were issued with the
suspects descriptors and with a description of his vehicle.Thomas
Taunton was arrested on a Fannin County warrant for capital murder
at approximately 3:00PMJanuary 19, 2012 at an automobile repair
shop in Louisiana when he had vehicle trouble.
Investigators went to Louisiana and obtained search warrants for
Tauntons vehicle and trailer. Additionalevidence has been located
inside the vehicles.
On January 21, 2012, Deputies, while following leads, discovered
three bodies behind a barn on Hwy 11approximately 1 mile east of
Sherman city limits. Investigative Crime Scene Unit processed the
scene.Justice of Peace was arrived at the scene and ordered the
bodies to be sent to Dallas Medical Examiners
Office for autopsies. The bodies are believed to be those of the
three family members missing from FanninCounty. At this time,
Officials are unable to confirm the identity of the bodies pending
autopsy.
Investigators are currently looking for the Harpsts vehicle
which is missing. The vehicle is Silver in color,2007 Dodge Caravan
with Texas handicap license plate 8CPYH. The van is equipped with a
wheelchair lifton the drivers side and a rack for carrying a
wheelchair is on the rear of the van.Anyone believing that they may
have seen the van should contact Fannin County Sheriffs Office
at(903)583-2143, or contact their local law enforcement agency.
As this is an ongoing investigation, no further information can
be released at this time.
Thank you,
