Bruce Mercer, 59, of Dayton, Texas, was killed at his home on County Road 4901 on August 17, 2020, during a shooting spree in his rural community. The shooter was identified as neighbor Michael Wettstein, 60, who had already shot and killed Misty Herndon, 38, and her father, Richard Lamm, 56, before arriving at Mercer’s property. Wettstein shot Mercer for reasons that remain unclear.

After shooting Mercer, Wettstein went on to another house and shot Marvin Rumley, 66, and his daughter Amanda Rumley; both survived with critical injuries. Wettstein was later found hiding in a wooded area with a swastika drawn on his forehead and in possession of the firearms used in the attacks. He was arrested and charged with capital murder and other felonies; the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation.

Anyone who knew Bruce Mercer or who has information about his movements or interactions with neighbors on or before August 17, 2020, is asked to come forward.