206 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.
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Description
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David Martin Long: A Detailed Account of His Crimes

Early Life and Background

David Martin Long was born on July 15, 1953, in Tom Green County, Texas. His early life was marked by significant challenges, including the death of his mother when he was ten years old. This loss profoundly affected him, leading to behavioral issues. His father, an alcoholic, often neglected the family, resulting in Long and his siblings being placed in various institutions and foster homes. By the age of twelve, Long was in reform school. He began abusing alcohol and drugs at a young age, leading to a troubled adolescence and adulthood.

The Lancaster Murders

On September 19, 1986, Long was hitchhiking when he was picked up by 37-year-old Donna Sue Jester in Lancaster, Texas. She offered him shelter in exchange for help with household repairs. Residing in the same home were:
  • Dalpha Lorene Jester: 64-year-old blind and bedridden adoptive mother of Donna Sue.
  • Laura Lee Owens: 20-year-old drifter from Florida who had been staying with the Jesters for about three weeks.
Long and Owens developed a romantic relationship during his stay. On September 27, 1986, following a series of altercations, Long attacked and killed all three women using a hatchet and a knife. The victims were discovered two days later by Donna's employer.

Victims

  • Donna Sue Jester: 37 years old; killed on September 27, 1986, in Lancaster, Texas.
  • Dalpha Lorene Jester: 64 years old; killed on September 27, 1986, in Lancaster, Texas.
  • Laura Lee Owens: 20 years old; killed on September 27, 1986, in Lancaster, Texas.
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Victims
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Confirmed Victims: (5)
  • James Carnell Age: (54), Date of Death: 1978-11-28
  •     ...View 4 additional victims
    Suspected Victims:
  • Betsy Beleu Age: (24), Date of Death: June 11, 1986
  • Gail Allison Age: (25), Date of Death: June 11, 1986
  • Links to Additional Sources (10)
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    Killer's Details

    David Martin

    Long

    July 15, 1953 Tom Green County, Texas, United States

    December 8, 1999 (aged 46) Huntsville Unit, Huntsville, Texas, United States

    Executed by lethal injection

    Male

    White

    Murder

    Death

    5 - 7

    1978 - 1986

    California, Texas

    San Bernardino (CA), Bay City (TX), Lancaster (TX), Iraan (TX) [suspected]

    October 24, 1986

    07/03/2025