UPDATE: Suspect Arrested, Charged in Woman's Death at 1919 Runnels

Charges have been filed against a suspect arrested in the death of a woman found at 1919 Runnels about 11 a.m. on January 26.  

The suspect, Harold James Lowdins (b/m, 44), is charged with murder in the 339th State District Court.  He is accused in the death of Bridgette Danelle Mercer, 41, believed to be homeless.  

A photo of suspect Lowdins is attached to this news release.   

HPD Homicide Division Sergeant S. Murdock and Senior Police Officer B. Evans reported:  

HPD patrol officers responded to a call regarding a possible deceased female at the above address and found Ms. Mercer deceased in a shallow drainage canal.  The area was within a small homeless camp.  

A preliminary investigation developed forensic evidence that was entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and a profile was developed.  Lowdins was initially questioned by investigations and, at that time, a DNA sample was taken.    

Further investigation and results from CODIS identified Lowdins as the suspect in this case and a murder charge was filed.  He was taken into custody on Monday (November 2) without incident.  

             Harold James Lowdins