Susan Gulla-O’Leary, a 60-year-old woman from Austin, Texas, tragically passed away on March 15, 2017. She was an accomplished local artist and beloved mother, sister, and daughter. Susan was known for her creativity and passion for life, which she expressed through her artwork. Her sudden death was a significant loss to her family and the community.
Susan's death was part of a double homicide that occurred on the evening of March 15, 2017, near Lake Travis.
She and her companion, Richard "Dale" Guthrie, also 60 years old, were found in the front yard of a residence on Whitebead Trail, both having suffered gunshot wounds to the head. Another woman was injured but survived the attack. The incident was described as a senseless and horrific ambush.
The suspect in the shooting was identified as Randall Lee Burrows, a 54-year-old contractor from Lakeway, Texas. Investigators revealed that Burrows was involved in a business dispute with the victims, which led to the tragic event. After the shooting, Burrows fled the scene in a white Ford Escape. Two days later, he died after leading police on a chase in Pike County, Mississippi, where he shot himself.
The Travis County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation into the double homicide, but with Burrows' death, the case did not proceed to trial. The community was deeply affected by the loss of Susan and Dale, and efforts were made to honor their memory, including organizing memorial events and scholarship funds in their names.
Susan Gulla-O’Leary's legacy lives on through her artwork and the impact she had on those who knew her. Her family continues to remember her with love and gratitude for the joy and inspiration she brought into their lives.
