WHITE OAK, Texas – Gregg County Sheriff’s Office deputies are investigating a deadly stabbing that claimed the life of a 58-year-old woman in White Oak just days before the New Year.
Deputies were called to the area of Jamerison Road on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, after a report of a homicide. When they arrived, they found Penny Renee Keys outside her residence suffering from multiple stab wounds. She was transported to Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center, where she later died from her injuries.
During the investigation, authorities gathered information that identified the victim’s son, Zachary Ryan Keys, as the suspect. Gregg County investigators moved quickly to obtain a murder warrant.
Zachary Keys and his vehicle were later located in neighboring Panola County, where Panola County Sheriff’s Office deputies took him into custody without incident.
The Gregg County Sheriff’s Office thanked the Panola County Sheriff’s Office for its assistance in securing the arrest. Investigators say the case remains active, and no additional details are being released at this time.
“This is an extremely sad and unfortunate situation during the holiday season,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement, adding that their thoughts and prayers are with the Keys family and the White Oak community.
