True Crime Garage - Episode: Liz Barraza (#815) Release Date: January 22, 2025
Overview
In episode #815 of True Crime Garage, hosts Nick and the Captain delve into the tragic and still-unsolved murder of Elizabeth Marie Barraza. Released on January 22, 2025, this episode provides a comprehensive examination of the case, exploring the timeline of events, potential suspects, and the ongoing search for justice. The hosts utilize various sources, including surveillance footage and interviews, to piece together the circumstances surrounding Liz Barraza's death.
Case Introduction
The episode opens with Nick and the Captain introducing the case of Liz Barraza, a 29-year-old woman who was brutally murdered on January 25, 2019, just days before her planned trip to Orlando, Florida, to celebrate her fifth wedding anniversary with her husband, Sergio Barraza.
Nick [04:07]: "Liz's husband, Sergio Barraza said, it is so cruel and evil what they did to Liz. She didn't deserve any of this."
Background Information
Liz Barraza, born Elizabeth Marie Newelli on June 26, 1989, hailed from Elk Grove Village, Illinois. She moved to Texas, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Sam Houston State University. Liz and Sergio were active members of the 501st Legion Star Garrison South Texas Squadron, a group that combined their love for Star Wars with charitable activities, particularly supporting the Make a Wish Foundation.
Nick [06:49]: "She loved fantasy, attended Comic Con conventions with Sergio and was known for her kindness and generosity."
Timeline of Events
The hosts meticulously outline the events leading up to and following Liz's murder, relying heavily on the website WhoKilledLizBarraza.com and various news sources.
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January 24, 2019 (Thursday):
- Liz and Sergio decide to host a garage sale to raise extra funds for their upcoming trip.
- They set up garage sale signs in their neighborhood, a spontaneous decision without extensive advertising.
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January 25, 2019 (Friday):
- 6:08 AM: Liz visits a local Starbucks for coffee.
- 6:16 AM: She returns home to begin setting up for the garage sale.
- 6:47 AM: A dark-colored Nissan Frontier pickup truck arrives in the neighborhood.
- 6:48 AM: Sergio leaves for work, driving his white panel van.
- 6:51 AM: The Nissan Frontier returns, approaches Liz's driveway, and the suspect emerges.
- 6:53 AM: Four gunshots are fired; Liz is killed almost instantly.
- 6:58 AM: Multiple neighbors call 911 after witnessing or hearing the shooting.
- 7:21 AM: EMS arrives to transport Liz for organ donation.
- 7:36 AM: Liz's parents arrive at the scene, discovering the aftermath.
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Post-Murder Developments:
- January 26, 2019 (Saturday): Liz is pronounced dead.
- January 2021: New surveillance footage emerges, showing the suspect revisiting the scene earlier that morning.
- January 25, 2022: The reward for information is increased to $50,000, with continued efforts by Crime Stoppers and law enforcement.
Captain [02:48]: "Early in 2019, wife and husband Liz and Sergio Barrazza were planning to leave for Orlando... on Friday, January 25th at approximately 6:55am Liz Barraza was shot multiple times."
Suspect Description and Theories
The debate over the suspect's identity is a focal point of the discussion. Surveillance footage depicts the murderer as wearing what appears to be a long gown or robe, with possible disguises such as a wig. There's contention over whether the suspect is male or female, with implications that a disguise was used to obscure their identity.
Nick [37:28]: "The suspect to me is walking purposefully, right. It's not casually, not trying to be quiet..."
Captain [41:38]: "There has been speculation both ways. Is this person wearing something as simple as a nightgown and some boots, or is this individual wearing some kind of costume like Cosplay?"
Weapon Analysis:
- The murderer used a .380 revolver, firing four precise shots that resulted in Liz's immediate death. Notably, no shell casings were found, which is consistent with the use of a revolver.
- There's speculation about the shooter's familiarity with firearms, given the ease and precision of the shots.
Captain [42:36]: "The gun is loud. The killer knows prior to going there. I'm going to do this. This is going to be loud."
Potential Motives and Suspects
The hosts explore various theories regarding the motive and potential suspects:
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Spousal Involvement:
- While there’s a lack of evidence pointing directly to Sergio, the husband, his behavior post-murder raises questions. He was detained for questioning but passed a polygraph test.
- Liz's remarriage has fueled online speculation about Sergio's involvement, though there's no concrete evidence to support this.
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Hired Hit Theory:
- Liz's father has suggested the possibility of a hired killer, implying that more than one person might be involved.
- The description "the people who did this" by Liz's father hints at multiple perpetrators, though this remains speculative.
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Unrelated Grievances:
- There's a possibility that the murderer held a personal grudge against Liz or Sergio, unrelated to their relationship.
Nick [56:29]: "But if I were to have the chance, the opportunity to counsel Sergio... I don't see it to be possible because we're talking seconds, not minutes."
Investigation Status
Despite the clarity of surveillance footage and multiple eyewitness accounts, the case remains unsolved. The involvement of the Texas Rangers, FBI, and Texas Anti-Gang Unit underscores the complexities investigators face. The primary lead remains the black Nissan Frontier pickup truck, which is described in detail to aid public recognition.
Nick [70:11]: "It appears to me that somebody wearing high-heeled boots... and ...some kind of long garment..."
Captain [68:07]: "Well, it's easier to find a vehicle than it is to find an individual. But... They got footage of this truck driving around and arriving at Sergio and Liz's house to do the shooting."
Community and Familial Impact
The Barraza family has been proactive in seeking justice, creating a dedicated website and engaging with the community to gather information. The loss has deeply affected their lives, with Sergio having remarried and Liz's parents remaining steadfast in their pursuit of answers.
Captain [04:37]: "Detectives are hoping that footage from security cameras that captured the incident will lead to the identification of the murderer."
Conclusion and Call to Action
Nick and the Captain emphasize the importance of community involvement in solving such cases. They encourage listeners to provide any information that might assist law enforcement in bringing justice for Liz Barraza.
Nick [71:25]: "And the person appears to have long hair or they are possibly wearing a wig. There is currently a reward of up to $50,000 for information in this case. If you have any details about the murder of Elizabeth Barraza, please call 713-222-TIPS and share what you know."
Final Thoughts
Despite the extensive details available, the murder of Liz Barraza remains a perplexing case with numerous unanswered questions. The combination of clear surveillance footage, yet elusive suspect identity, highlights the challenges faced by investigators. True Crime Garage underscores the necessity of continued public engagement and diligence in resolving such tragic events.
Recommended Actions for Listeners:
- Review surveillance footage details to aid in identifying the suspect.
- Reach out to authorities with any information, no matter how minor it may seem.
- Support Liz Barraza's family through community efforts and by spreading awareness.
Additional Resources For more information on this case or to submit tips, listeners are directed to:
- Website: WhoKilledLizBarraza.com
- Crime Stoppers: crimestoppers.org
This summary is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the Liz Barraza case as discussed in True Crime Garage episode #815. It is meant for informational purposes and to aid in the public's understanding and involvement in the ongoing investigation.