COMANCHE, Texas — Texas Rangers Identify Victim and Suspects in Multi-County Homicide Case
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Texas Rangers have made significant progress in a chilling multi-county homicide investigation that began earlier this month with the discovery of a body in rural Comanche County. Authorities have officially identified the victim as Marcio Maridell Anderson, a 41-year-old resident of Copperas Cove, Texas, whose life was tragically cut short in an act of violence that has shocked communities across the state.
Anderson’s body was discovered on May 15, 2025, in a remote area of Comanche County. Local residents reported suspicious activity in the area, prompting a swift response from Comanche County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Rangers. The scene was quickly secured, and a thorough forensic investigation began. Early findings indicated signs of foul play, triggering an immediate and comprehensive homicide investigation.
The ensuing multi-jurisdictional effort, spearheaded by the Texas Rangers in coordination with local law enforcement agencies and federal partners, led investigators on a cross-country manhunt. After days of painstaking investigative work, including the review of surveillance footage, digital communications, and witness interviews, authorities identified two suspects: Avery Eugene Stemmons and Karina Gonzales Barreto, both 21 years old and residents of Killeen, Texas.
The duo was apprehended in York, Maine, on May 20, 2025, in a joint operation involving local law enforcement in Maine and federal agencies. The exact circumstances surrounding their presence in Maine remain under investigation, but sources close to the case suggest the pair may have been attempting to flee the state to avoid arrest.
Stemmons and Barreto were extradited to Texas following their arrest and are currently being held at the Comanche County Jail. They are expected to face multiple charges related to the murder of Anderson, including capital murder. Formal charges are pending, and the case will be presented to the Comanche County District Attorney’s Office in the coming days.
Investigators have not yet released a possible motive for the killing, though sources indicate that the victim and suspects may have been acquainted. The Texas Rangers have remained tight-lipped about key details as the investigation continues, citing the need to protect the integrity of the ongoing legal proceedings.
In a statement released on Thursday, DPS officials praised the coordinated efforts of all agencies involved in the investigation. “This case demonstrates the strength of our collaborative law enforcement network,” said a DPS spokesperson. “Through the diligent work of the Texas Rangers and our partners across state lines, we were able to bring suspects into custody swiftly and safely.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding the case to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Crime Stoppers hotline.
The tragic loss of Marcio Anderson has left the Copperas Cove community in mourning. Friends and family describe him as a devoted father and a hard-working individual whose presence will be deeply missed. A memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days.
This case has drawn attention not only for the brutality of the crime but also for the fast-moving, multi-state manhunt that followed. As the suspects await trial, the people of Comanche County and surrounding communities are hopeful that justice for Marcio Anderson will be served.
