On March 2nd, 1995, the small town of Watts in Adair County was shaken by the brutal murder of 82-year-old Velma Anna Randolph Swank. Despite extensive investigations, her case remains unsolved, leaving her family and community searching for answers.
Velma's lifeless body was discovered in her own backyard, entangled in barbed wire and covered in contusions, cuts, and scrapes. She had suffered blunt force trauma to her head, but the cause of death was determined to be exposure to the extreme cold that night.
Investigators believe Velma was attempting to escape a robbery at her home and was likely trying to reach a family member's house when she met her tragic end. The back door of her home had been kicked in
Born on March 10, 1917, in Camp Verde, Arizona, Velma and her husband, Ralph Ruben Swank, had one son, Jerry, together. Tragically, Jerry passed away in 2001 never having learned any additional, details of his mothers' death or the identity of any suspects.
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) has been actively involved in the case, but despite their efforts, no arrests have been made. The circumstances surrounding Velma's death suggest a violent struggle, and the cold weather that night only added to the tragedy.
The OSBI continues to seek information from the public, urging anyone with knowledge about the case to come forward.
The OSBI remains committed to solving Velma's murder and bringing justice to her family. They encourage anyone with information to contact them at 800-522-8017.
Even the smallest detail could be crucial in solving this cold case and providing closure to Velma's loved ones.