Skeletal Remains Believed To Be Those Of Missing Cedar Park Woman

CEDAR PARK, TX — Police found the skeletal remains of a Cedar Park woman who had been reported missing by family members, officials said Thursday evening, leading to a murder charge for her common-law husband.

Amanda "Mandi" Gordon, 30, hadn't been seen or heard from since Dec. 12, prompting family members to alert the authorities. Armed with a search warrant, officers consequently entered the home on 2505 Cypress Lane she shared with Samuel Roy Byrd, 32, and her two children. Police found blood evidence on the property, but no body.

However, police said on Thursday they found skeletal remains believed to be Gordon's inside a burn pit in Bastrop County, according to a press advisory. "Based on that evidence to include artifacts located within the skeletal remains, we are as confident as possible without DNA confirmation that the remains are those of Amanda Gordon," police wrote.

Police said they found the woman's remains in two different parts of the property, with evidence also found of measures that were taken to dispose of evidence. "The remains were found in the Bastrop County area, on the property of one of Samuel Byrd’s known associates," police said.

Previous coverage:

• Fundraiser For Missing Cedar Park Woman's Kids Launched
• Police Search For Missing Person In Cedar Park
• Missing Woman Likely Killed: Cedar Park Police
• Blood Evidence Found In Missing Cedar Park Woman's Home

Police were unable to formally declare Gordon dead short of a positive identification, but suggested it was a foregone conclusion the remains are hers: "We will not be able to confirm the identity of the remains until further DNA forensic testing can be done. In working with the Williamson County District Attorney’s Office, Samuel Roy Byrd has been charged with murder in this case."

Notwithstanding the grisly discovery, police categorized the case as "...still very much an active and ongoing investigation" before renewing sentiments of condolence to the woman's family. "Again, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to Amanda’s family, and ask that you please continue to respect their privacy during this time."

Samuel Roy Byrd is now charged with murder after skeletal remains that are likely those of his common-law-wife, Amanda Gordon, 30, were found in Bastrop County. Photo via Williamson County Jail.