Human remains were found Friday, Aug. 12 in Erath County and preliminary investigations indicate they are likely the remains of Sharla Shaffer, a woman that has been missing for two weeks.
On Friday, at 9 a.m. the Erath County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a citizen who resides on County Road 179 and initially stating they believed they found a mannequin.
Upon investigation, ECSO discovered human remains.
“The remains have been transported to the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences in Dallas for identification and cause of death,” Sheriff Matt Coates released in a statement.
The sheriff said ECSO was joining in prayer and support along with Erath County citizens for both the Bramlett and Shaffer families during this time.
“We ask that the good citizens of Erath County respectfully abstain from comments that are not supportive to the family, or are speculative in nature, as those close to Sharla wait for answers,” Coates said. “The coming days will be difficult for everyone involved. We know that this community has a long history of coming together to support one another and heal. We know this time will be no different and are calling for the community to do just that.”
Shaffer was reported missing Friday, July 29 and according to information released by ECSO, she talked to her daughter late Friday evening along with another family member shortly before she was reported as missing.
A note was found by a family member Friday afternoon that is believed to have been written by Shaffer. The contents of that note have not been shared by law enforcement.
Multiple searches by law enforcement officers, volunteer firefighters, Erath County Constable offices, Erath County EMS, search dogs from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, a cadaver dog from the Texas Parks and Wildlife, drones and a DPS helicopters were done over several locations including family property.
The sheriff’s office released information Tuesday, Aug. 2 that the investigation did not provide any evidence that foul play or any criminal activity occurred, rather that she left of her own accord to go somewhere else.