Austin, TX, September 28, 2025
News Summary
Recent DNA evidence has identified Robert Eugene Brashers as a suspect in the 1991 murders of four teenage girls at a yogurt shop in North Austin. The discovery came through advanced forensic techniques and genetic genealogy, which implicated Brashers, a known serial killer who passed away in 1999. The case has long haunted the Austin community, and this new development reopens the investigation, offering hope for justice to the victims’ families.
AUSTIN – In a significant development, DNA evidence has identified Robert Eugene Brashers as a suspect in the December 1991 murders of four teenage girls at an “I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt!” shop in North Austin. The gruesome discovery occurred when firefighters found the bodies of the girls while battling a blaze that engulfed the shop.
The victims, who were bound with underwear and gagged with cloth before being shot in the head, included Jennifer Harbison, 17; Sarah Harbison, 15; Eliza Thomas, 17; and Amy Ayers, 13. The brutality of the crime shocked the community and left a lasting impact on the families and friends of the girls.
In the years following the murders, initial arrests were made in 1999, including defendants Robert Springsteen and Michael Scott. Both initially confessed to the crime but later recanted their confessions, claiming they were made under duress. DNA evidence used during their prosecution was eventually overturned, leading to their release in 2009 after advanced testing excluded them as suspects.
However, Robert Eugene Brashers, who died by suicide in 1999, has now been implicated through genetic genealogy technology. This method of investigation has become increasingly prominent in solving cold cases, linking Brashers—a known serial killer—with the yogurt shop murders. Brashers has a long history of violent crime, including a 1997 rape case and the 1990 murder of Genevieve Zitricki in South Carolina. He was also connected to the 1998 double murder of Sherri Scherer and her daughter, Megan, in Missouri.
Authorities announced their findings during a recent briefing, demonstrating the advanced forensic DNA analysis techniques that have revitalized the cold case. This renewed focus on the yogurt shop murders coincided with the release of an HBO documentary titled “The Yogurt Shop Murders,” which aimed to shed light on the tragic events and the ongoing investigation.
Deborah Brashers-Claunch, Brashers’ daughter, expressed sorrow for the victims’ families, acknowledging her personal connection to her father. The Austin Police Department continues to keep the investigation active, seeking further closure and justice for the families affected by this heinous crime.
As the investigation progresses, the commitment to finding justice for the victims remains a priority. The case exemplifies the potential of modern forensic science in solving historic crimes and the unwavering resolve of law enforcement to provide answers for the victims’ families.
Background on the Murders
The horrific murders occurred on December 6, 1991, when the four girls were found dead in the yogurt shop after it was set on fire. The crime scene was particularly challenging for forensic investigators due to the fire, which destroyed many critical pieces of evidence. Initial suspects were arrested years later, but advancements in DNA testing ultimately led to their exoneration and the reopening of the investigation.
The development in this case marks a pivotal moment in an investigation that has haunted the Austin community for over three decades. With the identification of Robert Eugene Brashers, the hope for justice has been reignited for the families of the young victims.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains open, and authorities are committed to pursuing any leads that may arise. Community support for the families continues, and there is an overall sense of determination to see justice served in a case that has left an indelible mark on the city of Austin.
FAQs
Who were the victims in the yogurt shop murders?
The victims were Jennifer Harbison, 17; Sarah Harbison, 15; Eliza Thomas, 17; and Amy Ayers, 13.
What happened during the murder?
The victims were bound with underwear and gagged with cloth before being shot in the head.
How was Robert Eugene Brashers identified as a suspect?
Brashers was identified as a suspect through genetic genealogy technology.
What was the outcome of the initial arrests in 1999?
The defendants Robert Springsteen and Michael Scott initially confessed but later recanted. They were exonerated in 2009 after DNA testing excluded them as suspects.
What advancements helped in solving the case?
Advancements in forensic DNA analysis have contributed to connecting Robert Eugene Brashers to the yogurt shop murders.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Austin Police Link 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders to Serial Killer
DNA Evidence Links New Suspect to 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders
New DNA Evidence Links Suspect to 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders
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Investigation Launched After Body Found at North Austin Bus Stop
Austin Reexamines the 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders
HBO Series Investigates Unsolved Austin Yogurt Shop Murders
Austin Police Investigate Homicide and Hate Crimes
Austin Faces Surge in Violent Crime as Homicides Rise
Nostalgic Memories Resurface as Northcross Mall Is Remembered
Additional Resources
- KVUE News
- Wikipedia: Yogurt Shop Murders
- New York Times
- Google Search: Yogurt Shop Murders Robert Eugene Brashers
- Austin American-Statesman
- Google Scholar: Yogurt Shop Murders
- Washington Post
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Yogurt Shop Murders
- FOX 7 Austin
- Google News: Yogurt Shop Murders
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
