Houston Police Department
Public's Help Sought in Fatal Shooting at 5600 West Tidwell

July 10, 2012 - Houston police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect or suspects who fatally shot a woman at 5600 West Tidwell about 6:20 a.m. on June 9.

Sadie Darlene Butler, 57, of Houston, suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead at the scene.  The motive for her shooting is unknown, as none of her belongings was taken.

On the day of her death, Ms. Butler left a relative’s home on foot about 4:30 a.m.  About two hours later, she was found about four miles away at a bus stop at the above location.

Where she was going or why she was at the bus stop are not known.  Family members told investigators she was not known to ride the bus.  An unidentified individual saw Butler lying at the bus stop and drove to a gas station at Antoine and West Tidwell to report it.  Someone else then went to the bus stop, found Butler, and called 911.  Investigators would like to speak to the person who first saw Butler.

“He is not a suspect,” said HPD Officer Mark Coleman.  “We would like to speak him to find out what he may have seen.  All we know at this time is he was a black male driving a newer model dark blue or black Chevrolet Impala.”

At a news briefing today (July 10), family members described Butler, who most people called Darlene, as a very trusting person everyone knew and liked.

“She was the sweetest, most loving person,“ said Butler’s daughter, Erica Boutte.  “She would give her heart, her last cent to anyone.  Everyone loved her and she didn’t have any enemies.  That’s why we don’t understand why anyone would do this to her,” Ms. Boutte added.

“We just want some information,” said Boutte.  “We know someone knows something, so please come forward.  We’re asking that you have a heart.”

Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.


HPD Homicide Police Officer Mark Coleman with Family HPD Homicide Police Officer Mark Coleman with Family    Victim's daughter

Erica Boutte, pleads for public's helpErica Boutte, pleads for public's help

Sadie Darlene Butler as seen in a family photo Sadie Darlene Butler as seen in a family photo
KJS/JFC  7-10-12
Inc. #073240812

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.