UPSHUR COUNTY, Texas — Law enforcement has received information that a Gilmer man accused of killing two sisters in Upshur County last weekend has been helped by certain family members and friends while evading arrest.
Alvin McKnight Jr., 41, of Gilmer, is wanted for capital murder in connection with the shooting deaths of Dermetrica Waters, 37, and Mandy Ray, 35, both of Gilmer. Waters and Ray, who were sisters, were found shot to death at a house in the 2800 block of U.S. Hwy. 271 South near Bluebird Road the night of Saturday, Nov. 4.
McKnight is still on the run and the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office still searching for him.
According to the sheriff's office, he abandoned his truck soon after the murders and got help to leave the immediate East Texas area that night. Officials say it's unknown if he returned to the area, which is where he lives and has both good friends and family.
UCSO said that McKnight does have acquaintances in other areas of the state and out of this state. If evidence shows that people have helped McKnight evade arrest, the sheriff's office said they could be charged with a crime related to hindering his arrest.
The sheriff's office has received assistance from the Longview Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety Intelligence Division and the Texas Rangers, as well as the U.S. Marshall’s Office and several other law enforcement agencies.
McKnight is 6'5 and weighs about 280 lbs., with a muscular build. Officials say he has braided hair with blonde highlights.
Upshur County Crime Stoppers is offering up to $10,000 for any anonymous tip that leads to McKnight's arrest. Those who have information should call the Upshur County Sherriff’s Office at (903) 843-2541 or Upshur County Crime Stoppers at (903) 843-3131 or online at upshurcounty.crimestoppersweb.com.
The lead investigator in this case is Rob Bowen at 903-680-8223.