Police in Texas have made an arrest after a young man was discovered dead in a shallow grave, having last been seen leaving a party with the suspect just hours earlier.
Discovery of the Body and Weeks-Long Search
The body of the victim, identified locally as 24-year-old John Richardson, was found on Monday in Denton County, Texas. This grim discovery followed a search operation that began on December 2, after Richardson was reported missing two days prior. He had last been seen at a party held on November 30.
Arrest Made in Connection with the Killing
The Fort Worth Police Department has confirmed the arrest of 23-year-old Alexander James Nicholas in connection with the murder. Homicide detectives were drafted into the case early on, suspecting foul play. Their investigation led them to Nicholas, who was reportedly the last person seen with Richardson.
Officials stated that Nicholas claimed he left the victim alive at a location in Fort Worth. However, evidence uncovered by detectives cast significant doubt on his account, leading to his arrest.
Ongoing Investigation and Appeal for Information
The exact manner of Richardson's death has not been publicly disclosed, with the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office continuing its probe. Police have indicated that further arrests remain possible as the investigation progresses.
Richardson was described on a missing poster as having a silver hoop earring in his left ear and a tattoo on his right forearm. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact Fort Worth Police Department homicide detectives on 817-392-4338.
