Austin Police Identify Suspect in 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders
Breakthrough in decades-old cold case
Austin, Texas, United States — Austin Police have identified Robert Eugene Brashers as the suspect responsible for the 1991 yogurt shop murders that claimed the lives of four teenage girls. The victims, Amy Ayers, Eliza Thomas, Sarah Harbison, and Jennifer Harbison, were fatally shot, and the building was set on fire at the “I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt!” location near Northcross Mall. At least one victim was sexually assaulted.
Brashers, who died by suicide in 1999 following a police standoff in Missouri, was linked to the case through physical evidence recovered from the crime scene. DNA from fingernail clippings of Amy Ayers confirmed his presence, suggesting the victim had attempted to defend herself.
Investigation and Evidence
Detective Dan Jackson, leading the investigation since 2022, said ballistic and genetic evidence played a critical role in identifying Brashers. A .380 pistol shell casing from the murders was re-submitted to the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, which helped link Brashers to multiple unsolved crimes across Kentucky, South Carolina, and Memphis. Re-analysis of Brashers’ DNA in 2018 provided a more complete genetic profile, connecting him conclusively to the 1991 murders.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis called the identification “a critical step forward” in honoring the victims’ memory. Austin Mayor Kirk Watson noted the breakthrough allowed families and the city to “express a deep sigh” after decades of uncertainty. Families of the victims expressed gratitude toward law enforcement for finally providing answers.
Previous Legal Proceedings
In 1999, four men were charged in connection with the murders. Michael Scott and Robert Springsteen were convicted but later had their convictions overturned after it was determined their confessions were coerced. Charges against Maurice Pierce and Forrest Welborn were also dismissed. Travis County District Attorney José Garza acknowledged the wrongful prosecutions and emphasized that the overwhelming evidence points to the guilt of a single individual.
Ongoing Case Status
While Brashers has been identified as the primary suspect, the case remains officially open, and additional investigative steps are planned. Police continue to work closely with families as they navigate the case’s ongoing developments.
The identification of Brashers brings a significant resolution to one of Austin’s most haunting cold cases and highlights the evolving role of forensic science in solving decades-old crimes.