Martha Shafer Missing Person Case

Martha Christine Shafer, a 39-year-old woman, went missing from Harris County, Texas, on May 26, 1992. At the time of her disappearance, she was described as being 4'10" tall, weighing around 95 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. She also had a distinctive mole on her forehead. Known by the nickname "Cricket," Martha was last seen in the Houston area, and her family had no contact with her after that day.

Martha was married to Terry Lee Shafer, and the couple had been together for over a decade by the time she vanished. Over the years, suspicions grew around Terry regarding his involvement in her disappearance. Despite these concerns, Martha's fate remained a mystery for many years. It wasn’t until 17 years later that Terry Shafer, already facing a prison sentence for an unrelated crime, confessed to having killed his wife. According to his confession, Terry kidnapped Martha, suffocated her, and then disposed of her body in the San Jacinto River near Baytown, Texas.

Although Terry's confession brought some resolution to the case, Martha’s body has never been recovered. The absence of physical remains has left lingering questions and a lack of closure for her family. Authorities had long suspected foul play, but Terry’s admission confirmed the worst fears. His confession came as a result of wanting to give Martha's family closure, knowing he would be imprisoned for the rest of his life.
Last Seen: May 26, 1992

Missing Person / NamUs #MP64416