A nearly decade-old missing person case in Oklahoma has taken a major turn, as authorities have filed new murder charges after finally identifying human remains. The development has given investigators the key evidence they were missing for years.
Cold Case Reopened After Nearly 10 Years
The case is linked to Matthew Fagan, who disappeared in 2016 after going on a hiking trip near Lake Tenkiller in Oklahoma.
At the time, three men were charged in connection with his disappearance. However, the case was later dropped because authorities were unable to find Fagan’s body, which made it difficult to prove the crime.
Three Men Charged Again
Now, prosecutors have refiled charges against Michael Snelling, Tyler Leverett, and Charles Blake Shamblin.
All three are facing first-degree murder charges along with accessory after the fact. Officials say the new charges are based on fresh evidence that was not available earlier.
Why the Original Case Was Dropped
According to Richard Incremona, the main problem in the earlier case was the lack of physical proof.
Even though investigators had statements from the suspects, they could not confirm the details because Fagan’s body had not been found. In Oklahoma, such statements need to be supported by evidence.
Suspects Had Allegedly Admitted to the Crime
Larry Lane said that the suspects had admitted involvement in Fagan’s death. However, their statements had differences, especially about where the body had been left.
Because of these inconsistencies, investigators were unable to locate the remains at that time.
Breakthrough Came From Hunter’s Discovery
The case changed about two years ago when a hunter found a bone in a wooded area. This discovery led authorities to search the surrounding area more carefully.
During the search, additional remains were found. These were later sent for DNA testing, which confirmed that they belonged to Matthew Fagan.
DNA Evidence Revives the Case
The identification of the remains became the turning point in the investigation. With physical evidence now available, prosecutors say they can prove that Fagan was killed.
This allowed them to reopen the case and file charges again against the three suspects.
Accessory Charges Explained
Prosecutors said the accessory after the fact charges relate to actions taken after the alleged killing. These may include efforts to hide the crime or dispose of the body.
Current Status of the Suspects
Authorities have issued new arrest warrants. One of the suspects is currently in custody, while the other two are believed to be outside the state.
The United States Marshals Service is reportedly working to locate and arrest the remaining suspects.
This case shows how investigations can take years to reach a turning point, especially when key evidence is missing. The discovery of remains and confirmation through DNA has finally given authorities what they needed to move forward.
For the family of Matthew Fagan, this development may bring some long-awaited answers after nearly a decade. As the legal process continues, the focus will now be on presenting the evidence in court and seeking justice in this long-standing case.
