Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – A man identified as a person of interest in a 2010 murder case took his own life during a video interview with police, raising troubling questions about the unsolved homicide. Michael Wayne Thomas, 54, died by suicide on May 31 as authorities posed questions regarding the death of Julie Mitchell, found murdered in her home more than a decade ago.
Authorities reported that Thomas shot himself in a wooded area near a casino in Kansas. His attorney, Ed Blau, shared that Thomas had previously denied involvement in the murder of the 34-year-old Mitchell, whose body was discovered in her home alongside her infant child in November 2010, seemingly untouched by the violence surrounding her.
Blau, who had represented Thomas since 2012, explained that during a 45-minute conversation prior to the tragic incident, his client maintained his innocence. As police were delving into the case—a chilling murder that left the community shaken—Thomas notably opted for a remote interview via video call instead of a face-to-face meeting.
The Oklahoma City Police Department had been eager to learn more from Thomas, including potential connections to a crime that has stumped investigators for years. Master Sergeant Gary Knight confirmed Thomas requested the virtual format of the interview, which was unusual for police procedures. “This is somebody we wanted to talk to,” Knight remarked, reflecting on Thomas’ status as a crucial figure in the ongoing investigation nearly 40 minutes into the call.
Amid the questioning, Thomas’ life abruptly ended when he produced a firearm and shot himself. Knight indicated that he could not recall another instance in his 35 years with the department where someone had taken their own life during an interview.
Thomas had been linked to the case prior to his death. A checkbook belonging to him was discovered at the scene of the Mitchell murder, fueling speculation about his involvement. However, Thomas consistently denied having any part in the crime, a claim he reiterated to law enforcement prior to his death.
The case of Julie Mitchell remains unresolved; she was the wife of Teddy Mitchell, who was implicated in illegal gambling operations in connection with her murder. At the time of her death, Teddy Mitchell was out of state, reportedly traveling in California. Following his wife’s death, he faced legal issues, ultimately serving time for his role in an illegal gambling operation.
Mitchell was discovered in her home, with authorities noting that approximately $30,000 was missing. As details continue to emerge, investigators remain focused on uncovering the truth behind her murder, which has haunted the community for more than a decade.
As the case evolves and the investigation proceeds, the tragic conclusion of Michael Wayne Thomas’ life has added a layer of complexity to an already convoluted situation, leaving unanswered questions and a lingering atmosphere of grief around the unsolved murder.
