GALVESTON, Texas — Authorities are investigating the death of a 74-year-old man whose body was found inside his Galveston apartment on Thursday morning. Police are also searching for his missing vehicle, which they believe may be connected to the circumstances of his death.
Officers responded to an apartment complex in the 8100 block of Seawall Boulevard shortly before 10 a.m. after receiving a call for a welfare check. When police arrived, they discovered the body of Richard Thomas lying face down on the floor inside his unit. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
While the cause of death has not yet been determined, investigators say they found no immediate signs pointing to how Thomas died. Authorities have not disclosed whether there were indications of foul play or forced entry. The Galveston County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death.
During the initial investigation, officers discovered that Thomas’ black 2017 Chevrolet Cruz was missing from the property. The vehicle has Texas handicap license plates with the number 5WNRW. Investigators believe the missing car could be a key piece of the puzzle and may help explain what happened.
In response, Galveston Police issued a “Be on the Lookout” (BOLO) alert for the vehicle and are urging the public to report any sightings immediately. “This vehicle is a priority in our investigation,” police said. “We’re asking anyone who sees it to contact us right away.”
So far, no suspects have been named, and no arrests have been made. Investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage from the area and speaking with neighbors to gather more details about any suspicious activity in the hours or days leading up to Thomas’ death.
The incident has raised concern among residents of the apartment complex, many of whom said the area is typically quiet. While officials have not said the public is in danger, the case remains active and open, with the missing vehicle adding urgency to the investigation.
Anyone with information about the case or the whereabouts of the black Chevrolet Cruz is urged to contact Galveston Police at 409-765-3736. Authorities say community tips are often critical in solving cases like this and are encouraging people to come forward.
