Austin, Texas, December 13, 2025
In a major development, the Travis County District Attorney’s Office moves to exonerate four men wrongfully accused of the 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders in Austin, Texas. This decision follows evidence linking Robert Eugene Brashers, a deceased serial killer, to the crimes. The new findings, based on DNA and ballistic evidence, offer hope for justice to the families of those wrongfully convicted. The ongoing investigation aims to address all aspects of this tragic case.
Austin, Texas: Breakthrough in 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders Case
Austin, Texas – In a significant development, the Travis County District Attorney’s Office has initiated proceedings to exonerate four men previously accused of the 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders. This action follows the Austin Police Department’s identification of Robert Eugene Brashers as the perpetrator, based on DNA and ballistic evidence.
Recent Legal Actions
On December 11, 2025, the District Attorney’s Office filed a motion in the 167th Criminal District Court, notifying the court of exculpatory evidence and requesting the appointment of counsel for Michael Scott, Robert Springsteen, Maurice Pierce, and Forrest Welborn. These individuals had been wrongfully implicated in the case, and the motion aims to clear their names following the new findings.
Identification of the True Perpetrator
In September 2025, the Austin Police Department announced that DNA testing had linked Robert Eugene Brashers, a deceased serial killer and rapist, to the murders. Brashers, who died in 1999, was connected to the crime through DNA analysis and ballistic evidence, including a bullet casing found at the scene that matched the weapon he used in a 1999 suicide.
Background of the Case
On December 6, 1991, four teenage girls—Amy Ayers (13), Eliza Thomas (17), Jennifer Harbison (17), and Sarah Harbison (15)—were found murdered in an I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt! shop in Austin. The victims were bound, shot in the head, and the shop was set on fire, destroying much of the evidence. Despite numerous leads and confessions over the years, the case remained unsolved until the recent breakthrough.
Impact on the Wrongfully Accused
The four men previously accused of the murders faced wrongful convictions and lengthy legal battles. The recent developments have brought hope for justice and closure for them and their families. Attorneys representing the men have expressed optimism about the exoneration process, emphasizing the importance of rectifying past injustices.
Ongoing Investigation
While the identification of Brashers has provided a significant lead, the investigation is ongoing. Authorities continue to gather evidence and seek further information to ensure that all aspects of the case are thoroughly addressed. The community remains hopeful that this development will lead to full justice for the victims and their families.
Related Developments
In August 2025, an HBO documentary titled “The Yogurt Shop Murders” premiered, delving into the case’s history and the impact on the community. The series has brought renewed attention to the case, highlighting the enduring quest for justice and the resilience of those affected.
Weather in Austin, Texas
As of December 13, 2025, the weather in Austin is mostly cloudy with a temperature of 61°F (16°C). The forecast for the upcoming days includes areas of morning fog and partial sunshine, with temperatures ranging from a high of 77°F (25°C) to a low of 46°F (8°C).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the latest development in the 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders case?
The Travis County District Attorney’s Office has filed a motion to exonerate four men previously accused of the murders, following the identification of Robert Eugene Brashers as the perpetrator.
Who is Robert Eugene Brashers?
Robert Eugene Brashers was a serial killer and rapist who died in 1999. DNA and ballistic evidence have linked him to the 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders in Austin, Texas.
What were the circumstances of the 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders?
On December 6, 1991, four teenage girls were found murdered in an I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt! shop in Austin. The victims were bound, shot in the head, and the shop was set on fire, destroying much of the evidence.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and seek further information to ensure full justice for the victims and their families.
Has there been any media coverage of the case?
Yes, in August 2025, an HBO documentary titled “The Yogurt Shop Murders” premiered, delving into the case’s history and its impact on the community.
Key Features of the 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Austin, Texas |
| Date of Incident | December 6, 1991 |
| Victims | Amy Ayers (13), Eliza Thomas (17), Jennifer Harbison (17), Sarah Harbison (15) |
| Perpetrator Identified | Robert Eugene Brashers |
| Legal Actions | Motion filed to exonerate four men previously accused |
| Documentary Released | “The Yogurt Shop Murders” premiered in August 2025 |
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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.
