Palo Pinto County, TX — A response to a vehicle fire during a large wildfire in Palo Pinto County led authorities to the discovery of a deceased woman and the arrest of a suspect on a capital murder charge, according to the Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 4:39 a.m. on August 27, the Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a vehicle on fire at Oaks Crossing, along the Brazos River. Deputies and multiple fire departments responded while a large wildfire was consuming portions of the county.
Upon arrival, deputies found a vehicle on fire and a deceased woman a short distance from the burning vehicle.
Investigators with the Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division responded and determined they believed the woman was the victim of a homicide. The Texas Rangers were contacted to assist with the investigation.
Despite challenges caused by the ongoing wildfires, investigators identified a suspect.
At approximately 11:20 p.m. on August 27, Palo Pinto County investigators and Texas Rangers arrested Michael Wayne Hatcher on a charge of capital murder.
The Sheriff’s Office did not release the identity of the woman or additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding her death in the announcement.
The charge is an accusation. Hatcher is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.