Texas Governor Greg Abbott offers a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the murderer of a 90-year-old Navy veteran in Houston, sparking a manhunt for justice.
At a Glance
- 90-year-old Navy veteran Nelson Beckett was brutally murdered outside his retirement home in Houston
- Governor Greg Abbott announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the culprit
- Crime Stoppers of Houston added $5,000, bringing the total reward to $15,000
- The suspect, described as a black man aged 25-30, remains at large
- Beckett was remembered as a kind-hearted veteran who dedicated his retirement to helping others
Governor Abbott Takes Action
In response to the shocking murder of 90-year-old Navy veteran Nelson Beckett, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible. This decisive action underscores the state’s commitment to protecting its veterans and bringing criminals to justice.
The governor’s office released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the incident and urging the public to come forward with any information that could help solve this heinous crime. Crime Stoppers of Houston has joined the effort, adding $5,000 to the reward, bringing the total to $15,000.
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Details of the Tragic Incident
Nelson Beckett, a respected member of the Houston community, was brutally attacked outside the Lonestar Senior Living Apartments. The assailant, described as a black man between 25 and 30 years old, approached Beckett while he was sitting in his car. In a horrifying sequence of events, the attacker assaulted and shot Beckett, stole his belongings and vehicle, and then ran him over with his own car.
“Cecilia and I are deeply saddened to hear of the murder of 90-year-old Navy veteran Nelson Beckett in Houston,” said Governor Abbott. “Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones, and the entire Houston community during this difficult time. Texas is already working with our local partners and providing full support in bringing this criminal to justice. I encourage anyone with information relating to this terrible crime to call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline or submit an anonymous tip online. Texas will always support the brave men and women who answered the call to serve in our nation’s military, and with the public’s help we will capture the murderer and put them behind bars.”
Law enforcement officials later found Beckett’s abandoned car approximately three miles from the crime scene. The suspect remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous.
Remembering a Hero
Nelson Beckett was more than just a victim of a senseless crime; he was a decorated Navy veteran who served during the atomic bomb tests. After his military service, Beckett dedicated his retirement years to helping others in his community.
“He loved big and loved his family so much,” his daughter, Tami Freund told Fox News. “To him, everyone had value, and he would do anything for anyone.”
Friends and family remember Beckett as a kind and funny man who spent his time driving people to appointments and church. He even offered his home as a halfway house, exemplifying his generous spirit. Beckett is survived by five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, with another on the way, leaving behind a legacy of service and compassion.
How to Help
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the crime to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS or online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website. The anonymity of callers is guaranteed by law, ensuring that those who come forward can do so without fear of reprisal.
As the search for justice continues, Governor Abbott’s reward offer serves as a reminder of Texas’s commitment to protecting its veterans and ensuring that those who commit violent crimes are held accountable. The tragic loss of Nelson Beckett has galvanized the community and state officials alike in their pursuit of the perpetrator, hoping to bring closure to the family and honor the memory of a man who dedicated his life to serving others.
