TCDA Announces Hearing to Clear the Men Accused of Committing the Yogurt Shop Murders

Travis County, TX —  Today, Travis County District Attorney José Garza announced that the hearing to clear the names of the four men previously accused of the Yogurt Shop Murders—Michael Scott, Robert Springsteen, Maurice Pierce, and Forest Welborn—is currently scheduled for February 19, 2026, at 9 a.m., in the 460th District Court, under the jurisdiction of the original court, the 167th District Court. Judge Dayna Blazey will be presiding.

On December 11, 2025, our office filed a Texas Disciplinary Rule of Professional Conduct 3.09 notice of exculpatory evidence and a motion for the appointment of counsel for the four men falsely accused of the Yogurt Shop Murders, the first step toward clearing their names. The notice followed the Austin Police Department’s September 29, 2025, announcement that DNA, ballistics, and modus operandi linked the murders to known serial killer Robert Brashers.

“It has been over twenty-five years since the four men wrongfully accused have been waiting for the criminal justice system to clear their names,” said Travis County District Attorney José Garza. “We hope this hearing offers the transparency they need to help them move forward and supports the healing process for the families of the four young girls, as well as for our Austin community.”

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