Rebecca Beard Case: Family Demands Answers 146 Days Later
It has been 146 days since a witness came forward in the Rebecca “Becky” Beard case and led multiple law enforcement agencies to a location inside the Brazoria County Wildlife Refuge.
Beard’s family says investigators have not returned for a new dig.
The delay has left the family angry, frustrated, and searching for answers in a case that dates back to 1986.
Family Questions Paul Taylor Jr.’s Confession
Family members tell investigative reporter Tammy Rose they no longer believe convicted Paul Taylor Jr. pulled the trigger.
They believe Taylor may have been present, but they say his own confession raises serious questions.
According to records reviewed by the family, Taylor said he was blacked out drunk during parts of the crime. He also reportedly said he used a handgun to shoot Becky.
The family says that does not match other evidence in the case.
Records Point to a Shotgun
Family members have spent months reviewing police reports, court records, and evidence documents.
One sealed evidence document raises major questions for the family.
According to family members, the document shows investigators recovered a Remington shotgun along with remains.
The family says the document also shows an investigator expected to testify about the remains after officials identified them.
Photos From Clute Home Raise Questions
Family members also reviewed photos from the 3rd Street home in Clute, where police say Becky was shot.
They say two holes in the photos look more like shotgun damage than handgun damage.
No law enforcement agency has publicly confirmed that interpretation.
Family Says DA Had Not Seen Document
In December 2024, the family met with Brazoria County District Attorney Tom Selleck.
They asked him about the sealed evidence document.
According to family members, Selleck said he had not seen the paperwork.
The family says that answer does not make sense because the document appears tied to evidence and possible testimony in the case.
Investigative reporter Tammy Rose reached out to the Brazoria County District Attorney’s Office for comment. As of publication, the office has not responded.
146 Days and No New Dig
The family says 146 days have passed since the witness led agencies to the Brazoria County Wildlife Refuge.
They say no new dig has happened at that location.
For Becky’s loved ones, the wait has only added to their frustration.
They want investigators to return to the site and follow the information the witness provided.
This remains a developing story. Investigative reporter Tammy Rose will continue following the Rebecca Beard case.
Editor’s Note: The claims about the witness, records, and photos come from family members. Tammy Rose requested comment from the Brazoria County District Attorney’s Office and will update this story if the office responds.
Related Books on Cold Case Investigations
I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara
American Predator by Maureen Callahan
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