Episode 45: A Painful Wait for Justice – The 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders (pt. 21)

In Part 2 of our two-part series on the 1991 Yogurt Shop Murders, we dive deeper into one of the most haunting and frustratingly unresolved cases in Texas history.

A Case That Won’t Let Go

The murder of four teenage girls—Eliza Thomas (17), sisters Jennifer (17) and Sarah Harbison (15), and Amy Ayers (13)—shattered the sense of safety in Austin and sparked an investigation that’s spanned more than three decades. The scene was horrific: the girls were tied up, shot, and the shop was set on fire in an attempt to erase evidence. But despite countless leads, interrogations, and trials, the case remains unsolved.

A Tangle of Confessions and Controversy

From the start, investigators faced steep challenges. The fire destroyed much of the physical evidence, and the early investigation zeroed in on four teenage boys—one of whom, Maurice Pierce, briefly confessed before quickly recanting. Years later, two of the other teens, Michael Scott and Robert Springsteen, would also confess under intense police pressure. But their admissions didn’t match the forensic evidence, and both convictions were eventually overturned. With no solid DNA link to any known suspect, the case grew colder.

DNA Developments Bring New Hope

Even as time passes, the fight for justice continues. In 2017, a renewed push for advanced DNA testing offered a sliver of hope. While the results haven’t yet led to a breakthrough, investigators and families alike remain optimistic that today’s technology could do what the original investigation couldn’t.

The Toll on Families and the Community

The pain left behind is immeasurable. These four girls were daughters, sisters, and friends—each with a future cut short. Their families have spent over 30 years living in uncertainty, advocating for answers, and pushing for changes in how cold cases are handled.

Looking Ahead

With a new HBO documentary, The Yogurt Shop Murders, set to revisit the case, there’s hope that public attention might bring forward new information—or even a long-awaited resolution.

At Super SUS, we’ll keep following this story and honoring the lives of Eliza, Jennifer, Sarah, and Amy. Because their story isn’t over until justice is served.

If you have any information related to the case, please contact the authorities:

• Austin Police Department:
  Phone: (512) 974-5000
  Website: www.austintexas.gov

• Crime Stoppers of Austin:
  Phone: (512) 472-TIPS (8477)
  Website: www.crimestoppersaustin.com
  Tip Line: You can submit anonymous tips online through the website or by calling the tip line.

• Texas Rangers:
  Phone: (512) 463-6666
  Website: www.dps.texas.gov