On January 19, 2023, at approximately 3:55 p.m., the Austin Fire Department responded to an emergency call reporting a deceased female at a residence in the 2200 block of Colgate Lane in East Austin. Upon arrival, first responders discovered 72-year-old Muriel Easley with a fatal gunshot wound to the head. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
During the investigation, officers found Muriel's husband, 77-year-old Willie Easley, present at the home.
Based on details gathered, detectives determined that Willie had shot his wife. Consequently, he was arrested and charged with murder. He was subsequently booked into the Travis County Jail, where he remained in custody.
The tragic incident marked Austin's fifth homicide of 2023. Authorities urged anyone with additional information to contact the Austin Police Department's Homicide Unit or submit tips anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program.
