Garage Sale Murder: A Seven-Year Mystery Unfolds

In January 2019, Elizabeth "Liz" Barraza was tragically shot four times at close range outside her home in Tomball, Texas, moments after her husband left for work. The devastating murder, which occurred during a planned garage sale, was captured by her doorbell camera, though the shooter's identity remained obscured. Liz passed away the following day, leaving a mystery that has baffled investigators for seven years.

The circumstances surrounding Liz's death are perplexing. Law enforcement believes the shooting was premeditated, with the perpetrator targeting a time when Liz was likely alone. Notably, no items were stolen from the garage sale, and Liz had recently acquired a $500,000 life insurance policy. Her family states she had no known enemies, deepening the enigma of the motive.

The case is being re-examined in the podcast "Somebody Knows Something," hosted by Kara Robinson Chamberlain. Initial suspicions fell on Liz's husband, Sergio Barraza, who has denied involvement and cooperated with authorities. However, Sergeant Michael Ritchie of the Harris County Sheriff's Office has not ruled anyone out. Investigators also explored a potential conflict between Liz and her father-in-law, Oscar Barraza, over a bounced check, though Oscar passed a polygraph test and remains a suspect.

Bob Nuelle, Liz's father, died of cancer on May 10, 2026, while her mother, Rosemary Nuelle, continues to advocate for justice. Sergeant Ritchie indicated that significant evidence, not yet public, may lead to a breakthrough in the case. The Harris County Sheriff's Office urges anyone with information to come forward.