Two Texas men, Chase Cook and Alexander James Nicholas, both 23, face murder charges after 24-year-old John Richardson’s body was found buried in a shallow grave in Fort Worth around Christmas 2025.
Incident Timeline
Richardson vanished after leaving a party with Nicholas on November 30, 2025; he was supposed to reach his girlfriend’s house but never did. Nicholas claimed he dropped Richardson off alive, but an argument allegedly ensued near Alliance Boulevard and a Buc-ee’s during the drive. Cops found Richardson’s stabbed and bludgeoned body on December 22 in a wooded Denton County spot.
Witness Accounts and Arrests
A witness said Nicholas flashed a handgun pre-party, later hinted “John wouldn’t be coming around anymore” with a finger-gun gesture, admitting the kill and suggesting a woods trip. Nicholas blamed Richardson for a car crash and was nabbed Christmas Day; Cook, who met Nicholas post-drop-off, got arrested March 17, 2026. Cook’s girlfriend revealed his texts to “help Alex,” their woods hole-digging, and his drunk confession.
Investigation Evidence
Cell data placed all three near the burial site. Nicholas holds $300,000 bond; Cook $250,000 in Tarrant County jail. The medical examiner ruled death by stabbing and head trauma.
