LINDEN, Texas -- Three sisters whose bodies were found in a neighbor's pond are now believed to be victims of homicide.
Zi'Ariel Robinson-Oliver, 9, A'Miyah Hughes, 8, and Te'Mari Robinson-Oliver, 5, died by strangulation, according to autopsy reports.
"The girls also suffered lacerations to their faces," Cass County District Attorney Courtney Shelton said in a news release.
The girls were reported missing about 9 p.m. July 29, 2022, by a cousin who was caring for them and their other siblings while their mother was at work.
As Cass County Sheriff's Office deputies, Texas Parks and Wildlife and Cass County Emergency Services District No. 2 searched for the girls, they found evidence that focused attention on a pond on neighboring property off state Highway 77 west of Atlanta.
The pond is about 200 yards from the girls' house.
"A pair of shoes was found at the edge of the pond, leading investigators to search the water," Sheriff Larry Rowe said in an earlier report.
The Bowie County dive team was called in, and the children's bodies were recovered about 3 a.m. July 30.
"Multiple witness statements have been obtained, DNA testing is ongoing, and the investigation will continue," Shelton said.
The Texas Rangers, Sheriff's Office and District Attorney's Office are seeking any new details that could lead to an arrest in this case. Any information, please call Texas Ranger Josh Mason at 903-255-5727