Fiancé Arrested in Connection with Death of LaVera Wardell in Denton, Texas
DENTON, TX — A man has been arrested in connection with the death of his fiancée after her body was discovered earlier this month. William Joseph Oddo III, 52, was taken into custody in Denton, Texas, and now faces charges of murder and tampering with evidence in the death of LaVera Wardell, 39.
Wardell’s body was found on May 19, prompting an investigation that led authorities to suspect foul play. According to Denton police, evidence at the scene indicated that Oddo not only had a role in Wardell’s death, but also attempted to alter or tamper with the crime scene in an effort to obstruct the investigation.
Following a thorough examination of the residence and collection of forensic evidence, detectives determined that there was sufficient cause to arrest Oddo. He was booked into the Denton County Jail, where he remains in custody. His bond status is currently pending, and court dates have not yet been set.
As of now, the cause of death for LaVera Wardell remains undetermined. Authorities have not released details regarding the condition in which her body was found or what specific evidence led to the charges. The Denton County Medical Examiner’s Office is continuing its investigation and conducting further testing to establish a definitive cause and manner of death.
The relationship between Wardell and Oddo was described as an engagement, though investigators have not commented on any known history of domestic disputes or violence between the two.
This case has shaken the Denton community, and law enforcement officials have expressed their commitment to seeking justice for Wardell. “This is a tragic and deeply disturbing case,” one official said. “We are working diligently to ensure all aspects of the investigation are handled with the utmost care and professionalism.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information that may assist in the case to come forward and contact Denton Police or Crime Stoppers. More details will be released as they become available through the ongoing legal process.
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