The Kilgore Police Department has made a breakthrough in a cold case concerning the disappearance of Sheryia Grant, a pregnant woman, who was last seen on August 19, 2016, in Kilgore. Grant was expecting her first child at the time of her disappearance.
The investigation encountered numerous challenges, with twists and turns along the way. After the recovery of a suspect's vehicle, fears escalated, prompting extensive searches across multiple counties. The Criminal Investigation Unit tirelessly combed through ponds, wells, and wooded areas in East Texas, and extended their search into other states. Collaboration with various departments was instrumental in progressing the investigation.
Substantial evidence was gathered, leading to the initial arrest of Allen Lamont Sutton (aka AJ), his girlfriend, Laneshia L. Young, and a juvenile male on a related felony charge. The Rusk County District Attorney successfully prosecuted the felony charge, resulting in their incarceration pending murder trials.
The Office of the Attorney General of Texas has taken over the murder case, with trial dates set for Sutton in February 2025, Young in June 2025, and the now-adult juvenile in August 2025.
Kilgore Police Chief Hunter expressed determination to seek justice for Grant, emphasizing their commitment to locating all her remains for a proper burial. Despite the challenges of prosecuting without all the remains, the department remained resolute in their pursuit of justice, which extends to other unsolved cases.
Chief Hunter extended gratitude to Sergeant Goodson for their efforts in advancing the case and commended the Special Prosecutors at the Attorney General's Office for their involvement in prosecuting the homicide case.
