KAUFMAN, TX — Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies are searching for Trevor Rhey McEuen, a capital murder suspect who failed to appear in court Tuesday morning after allegedly cutting off his ankle monitor. McEuen, 30, was due in a Kaufman County courtroom on a capital murder charge stemming from a fatal shooting and armed standoff last year.
McEuen is now the subject of an active warrant for bail revocation, with bail now set at $3 million. The jury for today's trial has been released because of McEuen’s disappearance.
The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office and other regional agencies, is currently focused on the area of U.S. Highway 80 east of Grand Saline, where McEuen is believed to be hiding.
“Our number one priority is the safety of all citizens of Van Zandt County,” said Sheriff Joe Bridger. “We are working diligently with our partner agencies to ensure the safety of all our citizens.”
Residents in the area are being asked to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to 911 immediately. Authorities strongly urge the public not to approach McEuen, who is considered dangerous.
Background on the Murder Charge
The charges against McEuen stem from a May 1, 2023, incident in northwest Kaufman County. According to authorities, deputies responded around noon to a shooting in the 9800 block of Neal Road, where they discovered 35-year-old Aaron Martinez fatally shot inside a bullet-riddled pickup truck.Â
As deputies arrived, McEuen was reportedly seen driving away from the scene. Law enforcement initiated a pursuit and followed McEuen until he stopped his vehicle nearby. According to police, McEuen refused to exit his vehicle and a standoff ensued.
A SWAT team, along with negotiators from the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office and a Texas Department of Public Safety helicopter, responded to the scene. Authorities say McEuen eventually surrendered peacefully after discarding a rifle and handgun outside his vehicle—details that were confirmed from aerial surveillance.
McEuen was taken into custody that afternoon without further incident and later charged with murder.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials have not disclosed how McEuen was able to tamper with or remove his ankle monitor ahead of today’s scheduled court appearance. Authorities continue to treat the situation with urgency, emphasizing public safety as their top concern.