Vietnam Veteran Charged in 1981 Death of Texas Woman

A Vietnam veteran, Larry Dean Brown, aged 79, has been charged in connection with the 1981 strangulation of Beverly Bruneau in Texas. Bruneau, who was 35 at the time, was found dead with an electrical cord around her neck in her Grapevine apartment. Brown, who was extradited from Colorado, is currently held without bond in the Tarrant County Corrections Center.

In a broader context, the resolution of this cold case is part of a trend of breakthroughs in several other unsolved cases due to advancements in DNA technology. Recent cases include matching suspects to the Colonial Parkway Murders in Virginia, identifying the perpetrator of the deaths of Lynn Vest and Jeremy Pickens in Ohio, and connecting a serial offender to the Yogurt Shop Murders. Criminologist Alex del Carmen emphasizes the role of DNA in these breakthroughs, highlighting the importance of preserving evidence.

Details of Beverly Bruneau’s Death

Beverly Bruneau, a flight attendant, shared a mortgage agreement with her friend Thelma. Thelma later married Brown, which led to complications regarding their Dallas property. Brown, previously a Navy pilot and later involved in construction, pressured Bruneau regarding the mortgage agreement, which led to tension between them.

Significant events preceding Bruneau’s death included a fire at her home suspected to be arson and fraudulent insurance forms linked to Brown. A confrontation between Brown and Bruneau took place a few days before her death.

The Crime Scene

Bruneau’s body was discovered by her boyfriend in her apartment with visible injuries that indicated a struggle. Her nightgown was preserved during the autopsy, later playing a crucial role in the case.

DNA Evidence and Arrest

In 2010, investigators reexamined evidence, extracting a male DNA profile from Bruneau’s nightgown which matched none in the database. A breakthrough occurred when samples from Brown’s trash in Colorado matched the DNA from the nightgown, leading to his arrest.

Legal Proceedings

Brown’s defense argues that the evidence against him is mostly circumstantial and that previous interactions with Bruneau might explain the DNA match. His attorney is seeking bond due to Brown’s health issues and recent eligibility for benefits.