43 years later: The mystery of the murder victim by the roadside finally solved

A 43-year-old murder mystery has been solved: Betty Jo Norris, a 44-year-old mother, was identified after being found shot and discarded by a roadside in Texas in 1983. The breakthrough was achieved through advanced DNA testing and genealogical research, which led to her son providing a DNA sample. The case remains open and authorities continue their search for the killer.

The Texas Department of Public Safety announced a breakthrough in a 43-year-old cold murder case: the victim has been identified as Betty Jo Norris, a 44-year-old mother. Norris was found shot and discarded by a highway in Hamilton County in September 1983, and her identity had remained a mystery ever since. The significant development came in July of last year, after decades during which the case was frozen. Investigators used advanced DNA testing and genealogical research to locate a relative in the city of Belton, who reported that his mother had disappeared in the early 1980s. Norris's son provided a DNA sample, which conclusively confirmed her identity. Norris's skeletal remains were discovered by ranchers near Highway 36 in Hamilton County. Her body was found on September 1, 1983, but investigators estimated she had been by the roadside for several months due to the advanced state of decomposition. Initial attempts to identify the victim through DNA testing were unsuccessful, and the case went cold between 2005 and 2024. After the investigation was reopened, researchers re-processed evidence and found male DNA on Norris's clothing. The case remains open, and authorities continue their manhunt for the killer.