DPS seeks info in cold case murder of Groves Marine

Published 2:53 pm Tuesday, June 14, 2016

The Texas Department of Public Safety is asking the public’s help in solving the murder of U.S. Marine Pfc. Greg William Ivey, 20, in 1989.

As part of a DPS public awareness program, one unsolved case is featured by the Texas Ranger Unsolved Crimes Investigation Team each month in an effort to generate new investigative leads and bring added attention to unresolved or “cold cases” across the state.

At the time of his death, Ivey, had been in his hometown of Groves on a 15-day leave. Ivey was last seen on May 8, 1989, when his father dropped him off at Houston Intercontinental Airport for a flight back to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. However, records indicate that Ivey never boarded his departing flight and never reported to Camp Lejeune. Ivey was last seen wearing a white shirt, Levi jeans, grey “roper” boots and a western hat.

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One of Ivey’s friends also reported receiving a phone call from him on May 10, 1989. According to the friend, Ivey claimed to be hitchhiking back to Groves, Texas.

In August 1989, Ivey’s skeletal remains were discovered in Tyler County, approximately 10 miles southeast of Warren off of FM 2827. The remains were found near an old logging road, located approximately ½ to ¾ miles into the woods. An examination of the remains revealed evidence of murder.

Anyone with information about this unsolved case can submit a tip through the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website or contact the Missing Persons Clearinghouse at 1-800-346-3243. Also, additional photos of Ivey are posted online at the above link.

The Texas Ranger Unsolved Crimes Investigation Team was created to assist Texas law enforcement agencies investigating unsolved murders or what appear to be serial or linked criminal transactions. Since there is no statute of limitations for the offense of murder, investigators pursue these cases to a successful resolution; or until no other lead is viable.