Woman Found Dead Near Burning Vehicle Along Brazos River Identified, Mineral Wells Man Charged With Capital Murder

PALO PINTO COUNTY, Texas - Authorities have identified a 32-year-old woman found dead near a burning vehicle along the Brazos River as investigators continue a homicide case that led to a capital murder arrest.

The Palo Pinto County Sheriff's Office identified the victim as Leah Dawn Adams.

Michael Wayne Hatcher of Mineral Wells was arrested Aug. 27 and charged with capital murder in connection with Adams' death. He remains in the Palo Pinto County Jail without bond.

The investigation began around 4:39 a.m. Aug. 27 when authorities received a 911 call reporting a vehicle on fire at Oaks Crossing along the Brazos River.

Deputies and multiple fire departments responded while crews were also dealing with a large wildfire burning in Palo Pinto County.

When deputies arrived at Oaks Crossing, they found the vehicle burning and discovered Adams dead a short distance away, according to the Sheriff's Office.

Investigators with the Palo Pinto County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division and the Texas Rangers responded to the scene.

Authorities determined that Adams' death appeared to be a homicide. Hatcher was identified during the investigation and arrested later that same day.

The Sheriff's Office has not disclosed how Adams died, what evidence led investigators to Hatcher or the circumstances surrounding the burning vehicle.

Jail records show Hatcher had previously been arrested May 2 on a driving while intoxicated charge. That case was still pending at the time of his capital murder arrest.

The Palo Pinto County Sheriff's Office and Texas Rangers continue to investigate the homicide.