Hailey Darlene Dunn was a vibrant, outgoing 13-year-old eighth-grader, cheerleader, and active participant in sports and band at Colorado City Middle School in Mitchell County, Texas. Born on August 28, 1997, she was known for her bright smile and energetic personality. Christmas 2010 was supposed to be a joyful time for the Dunn family. Hailey spent the holiday with her mother, Billie Jean Dunn, at their home in Colorado City, along with her older brother David and Billie’s boyfriend, Shawn Adkins.
Those close to Hailey later revealed she felt uneasy around Shawn and had expressed fear of him. Despite any underlying tensions, Hailey appeared happy during the holidays, excited about her gifts — especially a new iPod. No one could have imagined that this would be the last Christmas she would ever celebrate.
The Day Hailey Vanished
On December 27, 2010, Hailey disappeared. According to her mother Billie, Hailey was last seen by Shawn Adkins. He claimed the 13-year-old left the house on foot, saying she planned to walk to her father Clint Dunn’s house and then to a friend’s for a sleepover. Hailey never arrived at either location. Her father confirmed she never showed up, and the supposed friend told police no sleepover had been arranged.
Billie reported her daughter missing on December 28, 2010. Initially, authorities treated the case as a possible runaway — a classification that frustrated the family given Hailey’s age and circumstances. The case was soon upgraded to a missing child investigation as concern grew.
A Town in Shock and Growing Suspicion
Hailey’s disappearance quickly drew national attention. Media outlets, including segments on Nancy Grace, covered the story extensively. Suspicion quickly focused on Shawn Adkins and, to some extent, Billie Dunn. Witnesses noted inconsistent statements from the couple, and many were disturbed by reports that they hosted a New Year’s Eve party shortly after Hailey vanished. The family participated in candlelight vigils, tearfully pleading for information, but public scrutiny intensified.
Polygraph examinations reportedly showed issues for both Billie and Shawn. Law enforcement executed multiple search warrants, but for over two years, Hailey remained missing.
The Heartbreaking Discovery
On March 16, 2013, human remains were found in a remote area near Lake J.B. Thomas in Scurry County, Texas — roughly 20-30 miles from Colorado City. Forensic testing confirmed they belonged to Hailey Dunn. Her death was ruled a homicide. Court documents later revealed she suffered blunt force trauma to the head, an injury that would have caused significant bleeding.
The discovery shattered any lingering hope. Hailey’s family, especially her father Clint, has continued fighting for justice ever since.
The Prime Suspect: Shawn Adkins
Shawn Adkins, Billie’s boyfriend at the time and living in the home, became the central person of interest. Hailey’s brother David later described suspicious behavior by Shawn on the day she disappeared, including a locked house and a conversation that raised red flags. Investigators also examined reports of the couple withdrawing cash at ATMs shortly after Hailey vanished.
In June 2021, after years of investigation, Shawn Adkins was arrested and charged with Hailey’s murder and tampering with evidence. He was held on a high bond. However, in June 2023, prosecutors dismissed the charges “without prejudice” for further investigation, citing issues such as unreliable forensic testing, cell phone data problems, and the need for additional work.
As of 2026, no one has been convicted in Hailey’s murder. The case remains officially unsolved, though Shawn Adkins continues to be regarded as the primary suspect by many involved, including Hailey’s family.
Recent Developments and Ongoing Investigation
In early 2025, the Texas Rangers Cold Case Unit officially took over the investigation (reference number 153). The family and private investigators continue to push for answers, expressing frustration over past investigative shortcomings.
Fifteen years after her disappearance (as of December 2026), Hailey would have been 29 years old. Her loved ones, particularly her father Clint Dunn, remain vocal in seeking justice and keeping her story alive through the “Who Killed Hailey Dunn” Facebook page and media appearances.
A Community Still Searching for Answers
Hailey Dunn’s case stands as one of West Texas’s most haunting unsolved murders. The combination of a young girl’s sudden disappearance from her own home, inconsistent accounts, a delayed discovery of remains, and legal setbacks has left her family and the community with deep pain and unanswered questions.
Despite the passage of time, those who loved Hailey refuse to give up. They urge anyone with information to come forward and continue honoring her memory through advocacy and remembrance.
If you have any information about Hailey Dunn’s case, contact the Texas Rangers Cold Case Unit at 1-800-252-8477 or submit tips through official channels, referencing case number 153.
Rest in Peace, Hailey Dunn. Your story is not forgotten, and the fight for justice continues.
