On January 28, 2023, 56-year-old Rene Sherwood and her husband, Michael Sherwood, were tragically found shot to death in their home near Leming, Texas. The couple's youngest son, Logan, discovered their bodies in the early morning hours and immediately contacted authorities. Upon investigation, it was noted that their other son, 28-year-old Derrick Sean Sherwood, was missing, along with the family's Volkswagen Jetta.
Law enforcement swiftly initiated a manhunt for Derrick, receiving information about the vehicle's location near the Live Oak County line. Deputies spotted the car on FM 99, leading to a pursuit that ended when Derrick crashed into a fence and fled on foot. After a 10-hour search involving approximately 60 officers from multiple agencies, Derrick was apprehended near a creek by a Department of Public Safety aircraft and SWAT team. Two pistols were recovered from the vehicle, one believed to be the murder weapon.
Derrick was charged with capital murder and evading arrest with a motor vehicle. In December 2023, he pleaded guilty to the charges in the 81st Judicial District Court, accepting a plea agreement that sentenced him to life in prison without the possibility of parole, thereby waiving the death penalty. During the sentencing, Derrick expressed remorse for his actions, attributing them to his long-standing struggles with drug and alcohol addiction.
The tragic deaths of Rene and Michael Sherwood have deeply affected their surviving sons, Justin and Logan, as well as the broader community. A GoFundMe campaign was established to assist the family with funeral expenses and other related costs, reflecting the community's support during this difficult time.
