Houston, Texas – Houston police and Texas Rangers are renewing calls for tips in the 1980 Christmas double homicide of a mother and her teenage son, increasing the reward to $6,000.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, investigators are seeking new information in the deaths of 31-year-old Estella Salinas and her 14-year-old son, Andrew Salinas. The pair were found strangled on Dec. 25, 1980, near the 4500 block of Creekmont Drive on the east side of White Oak Bayou and the Pinemont Bridge in Houston.
Authorities said Estella and Andrew had left their residence Christmas morning to spend the holiday with family members. Witnesses reportedly last saw them in a blue-colored 1972 Mercury Cougar near Cavalcade Street and the U.S. 59 northbound frontage road, in front of a McDonald’s restaurant. Family members later located the vehicle near the intersection of Cavalcade and the East Freeway. Officials said the keys and personal belongings were still inside.
The Texas Rangers are now highlighting the case as part of a cold case review, marking 45 years since the killings. Officials said the reward increase applies to information leading to the arrest of those responsible.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 800-252-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online. Investigators said even small details could assist in advancing the case.
The renewed outreach may resonate with longtime Houston residents who remember the case or younger community members who have heard it discussed through family.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook and support local independent news.
Have a tip? Message us.
