WEBSTER, Texas – Authorities in Webster, Texas have identified a suspect in the tragic murder of Gayle Thompson, a beloved inclusion aide at Stewart Elementary in Hitchcock ISD. Marcus Jamar Thompson, 29, is currently in custody in Warren County, Mississippi on charges of unauthorized use of a vehicle, having allegedly taken his mother’s car. However, court records name him as a suspect in his mother’s killing.
Gayle Thompson, 58, was discovered beaten and stabbed in her Webster apartment. She was found after failing to report to work at the elementary school, prompting a welfare check by Webster police. The crime is believed to have occurred the previous day, with neighbors recalling hearing a disturbance.
According to a neighbor who wishes to remain anonymous, Marcus was seen leaving the scene in his mother’s car in a seemingly calm manner. The neighbor described witnessing Marcus loading a fishing rod and bait bucket into the car before driving away. Marcus was later located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, where he allegedly made threats against his father upon release from prison.
Gayle Thompson’s death has deeply impacted the Hitchcock ISD community, with Superintendent Travis W. Edwards expressing grief over the loss. Gayle had been an integral part of the district since 2014, dedicated to supporting students with special needs as an inclusion aide. Her colleagues remember her for her kindness and compassion towards all.
Thompson is now awaiting extradition back to Texas, with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office aiding in the investigation. The school district has issued a heartfelt letter mourning the loss of Gayle Thompson and emphasizing the impact of her legacy of kindness and compassion on the community.
During this tragic time, counselors at Hitchcock ISD, including Dr. Cynthia Coronado, are available to offer support to staff and students as they remember Mrs. Thompson’s remarkable life and navigate through their grief. The school community mourns the loss of a cherished member and seeks solace in the memories of Gayle Thompson’s unwavering dedication and warmth.