Arrest Made in Bowie County, Texas Double Homicide

A Texas man is facing a capital murder charge after authorities say he shot and killed two people during a burglary at a Bowie County home last week. The suspect, Clyde Stephens II, 34, is currently in custody in White County, Arkansas, where he was arrested while driving a vehicle belonging to one of the victims.

According to investigators, Charles Beckham had just returned home from an overnight shift at the Texas Department of Corrections' Johnston Unit in Winnsboro during the early morning hours of June 19. Investigators believe Beckham interrupted a burglary in progress at his home and was shot multiple times by Stephens outside the residence. Authorities say Stephens then attempted to cover up the crime by setting Beckham’s truck on fire, with Beckham’s body inside.

Clyde Stephens II - BCSO

Later that morning, Donna Culpepper arrived at Beckham’s home for a planned trip into town. She reportedly discovered the aftermath of the killing and was allegedly also shot by Stephens, according to police. Stephens then fled the scene in Culpepper's vehicle.

Stephens was later found and arrested in Searcy, Arkansas. He is currently facing charges of Theft by Receiving and Fleeing in White County. Once those charges are resolved, he will be extradited to Texas to face a Capital Murder charge here in Bowie County.

Bowie County Sheriff Jeff Neal expressed gratitude to multiple agencies for their help in the investigation, including law enforcement from Arkansas and Texas, the FBI, and several local departments. Bowie County Investigators say Stephens is believed to be the lone suspect in the case.

Information obtained via Press Release materials from Bowie County Sheriff, Jeff Neal.