Austin, Texas — David Cady is now in custody and indicted for the murder of 86-year-old Mary Searight, thanks to advancements in DNA technology.
Searight was found dead in her home in Paris, Texas, in August 1996, after being sexually assaulted, severely beaten, and strangled. She died three days later from her injuries. At the time, Cady, who was 25 years old, was a tenant of one of Searight’s rental properties and was initially a suspect. However, no major breakthroughs in the case followed for nearly three decades.
In February 2024, DNA evidence analyzed by the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Crime Lab Division confirmed Cady’s involvement in the crime. This led to his arrest by the Texas Rangers and the Paris Police Department. Cady, who was already incarcerated for another unrelated offense, remains behind bars as he faces charges for the 1996 murder.