Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons confirmed the heartbreaking news on Tuesday that the body of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, who went missing on her way to school, was discovered in the Trinity River. The details of this tragic incident are unfolding as law enforcement investigates the circumstances surrounding her death.
Discovery and Investigation
Sheriff Lyons stated that Audrii’s body was found under US Highway 59 at the Trinity River. The authorities have transported her remains to the medical examiner’s office in Harris County, awaiting information on the cause of her death. Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the arrest of Don Steven McDougal, 42, as the district attorney considers a capital murder charge.
Legal Background of the Suspect
McDougal, a friend of Audrii’s father, had a criminal history with convictions for violent crimes and enticing a child. His arrest on unrelated aggravated assault charges occurred before the discovery of Audrii’s body. Court records reveal past convictions, including enticing a child in 2007 and aggravated assault in 2010 and 2019.
Search Efforts and Social Media Presence
Surprisingly, McDougal was actively involved in the search efforts for Audrii. Witnesses reported him knocking on doors and participating in the community’s attempts to locate the missing girl. McDougal even took to social media, claiming innocence and stating that he had done everything to help find her.
Timeline of Events
The family last saw Audrii on Thursday morning when she left for the bus stop with McDougal. Unfortunately, she never made it to school, and her backpack was discovered near a dam on Lake Livingston, miles away from where her body was found. The sheriff emphasized that there were no signs of struggle where the backpack was located.
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As the investigation continues, more details may emerge, shedding light on the tragic circumstances surrounding Audrii Cunningham’s untimely death. Our thoughts and condolences go out to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.