Mineral Wells Area News

Reporting By Amy Meyer | Mineral Wells Area News

PALO PINTO COUNTY, Texas — The Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office has identified the woman found dead near a burning vehicle at Oaks Crossing last week as Leah Dawn Adams, 32.

Adams was discovered Aug. 27 after deputies responded to a 911 call at approximately 4:39 a.m. reporting a vehicle on fire at Oaks Crossing along the Brazos River.

When deputies arrived, they found the burning vehicle and located Adams deceased a short distance away.

Investigators with the Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division and the Texas Rangers responded and determined her death appeared to be a homicide.

Later that same day, investigators arrested Michael Wayne Hatcher and charged him with capital murder.

The Sheriff’s Office said Wednesday that the investigation remains ongoing and no additional information will be released at this time.

“Our thoughts are with Leah Dawn Adams’ family and friends during this difficult time,” Sheriff J.R. Patterson said in the release. “The Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office will continue working with the Texas Rangers to see that this investigation is completed and justice is served.”

Authorities have not publicly released additional details about Adams’ death or the circumstances surrounding the capital murder charge.

Hatcher is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.