Family Of Oklahoma Cowboy Killed In Texas Wants Justice

An Oklahoma cowboy is murdered on Mother’s Day in Texas. His family is speaking out to bring the case to light and help police track down his alleged killer.

“He had that contagious smile that wherever he went he would light up a room,” said Ashlyn Jones, Austin Winn’s sister.

Austin Winn, 26, was a cowboy at rodeos and in life.

“My brother was ornery, but he had a huge heart and he loved big,” Jones said.

Jones said her brother joined the family tradition of hauling livestock.

“Our family, it's been three generations our grandpa and my dad and Austin that have hauled horses and cattle,” she said.

From Tecumseh, Winn traveled a well-known route to Texas, two to three times a week.

“The area was common for the whole family and not anywhere he wasn't supposed to be that was just his route on his way home,” said Azia Bradley, Austin Winn’s cousin.

However, Bradley said on May 12, he didn’t make it home.

“Absolutely shocked that it would happen on Mother's Day,” Bradley said.

The family says Winn had just dropped off a load of horses and stopped at a gas station near Midland, Texas to refuel.

“He had sent my mom a text that said, ‘Happy Mother’s Day, I love you, I’ll be in for dinner tonight’ and had been on the phone with his girlfriend Lindsey telling her the same thing,” Jones said.

“That's the last anyone ever heard from him,” Bradley added.

Shortly after sending that text, police found Winn shot to death outside his 18-wheeler at this busy intersection off West I-20 in Midland County.

“It’s something that never should have happened he didn't deserve it,” Bradley said.

The investigation is ongoing as the family struggles to find answers as to why Winn was killed.

“Someone had to be in that area and seen that and we hope that this will get out and find that person that does know something,” Jones said.

A $6,000 reward is offered to anyone with information that leads to an arrest. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers of Midland at 432-684-9884.