SPRING, Texas (KTRK) — Deputies released a 20-year-old from jail days after a 19-year-old was gunned down in a Spring-area neighborhood, citing new evidence that provided an alibi.
On Monday, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office announced the development about Mark Anthony Crooms, whom investigators produced as the suspect in John Dennis Holmes III‘s slaying last Tuesday.
Deputies said they found Holmes, a Harris County resident, shot to death in the middle of the road in the 300 block of Raypine Drive, near I-45 and Rayford Road, that evening.
MCSO added that neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots at about 6:40 p.m. and that many kids were out and about when the shooting happened.
According to MCSO, detectives initially issued an arrest warrant for Crooms based on probable cause established during the investigation’s early stages.
The sheriff’s office didn’t specify the new evidence that necessitated Crooms’ release.
“This development highlights our unwavering commitment to conducting thorough and fair investigations,” the sheriff’s office wrote in a news release. “The integrity of our investigative process is paramount, and we remain dedicated to transparency and accountability in all our operations.”
MCSO said Holmes’ death investigation remains active. Investigators urge anyone with information to contact the sheriff’s office at 936-760-5800 and use option 3. To remain anonymous, contact Multi-County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-392-STOP (7867) and refer to case No. 24A203879.
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