Richard Thomas Obituary, Death: Galveston police seek missing vehicle after 74-year-old man found dead in Seawall Blvd. apartment.

Richard Thomas Obituary, Death: Authorities in Galveston are investigating the death of a 74-year-old man whose body was found inside his apartment on Thursday morning. Police are now also searching for his missing vehicle, which they believe may be connected to the incident.
Galveston police were called to an apartment complex located in the 8100 block of Seawall Boulevard shortly before 10 a.m. Thursday. Upon arrival, officers discovered the body of an elderly man lying face down on the floor inside one of the apartment units. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) responded but were unable to revive him, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The deceased man was later identified as Richard Thomas, a 74-year-old local resident. Police have not released any information suggesting whether foul play is suspected, but details about the condition of the apartment or any potential signs of struggle have not been publicly shared at this time.
As officers conducted a preliminary investigation at the scene, they learned that Thomas’ vehicle, a black 2017 Chevrolet Cruz, was missing. The car is equipped with Texas handicap license plates bearing the number 5WNRW. Investigators suspect the vehicle may be linked to the circumstances of Thomas’ death and are working to locate it as a priority in their case.
In response, the Galveston Police Department has issued a “Be on the Lookout” (BOLO) alert for the missing vehicle. They are urging the public to remain vigilant and to immediately report any sightings of the black Chevrolet Cruz. Anyone with relevant information or who believes they have seen the vehicle is asked to contact Galveston PD investigators directly at 409-765-3736.
The department has not yet released a suspect description, and no arrests have been made in connection with the case. As of now, the motive behind Thomas’ death remains unclear. Police have not commented on whether there were any signs of forced entry into the apartment or if any personal belongings besides the vehicle were missing.
Thomas’ death has prompted concern among residents in the area, especially those living in the same apartment complex. While officials have not indicated any ongoing threat to the public, the disappearance of his vehicle has heightened the urgency of the investigation.
Galveston PD has stated that the investigation is still in the early stages and that detectives are actively working to gather more information. They are reviewing security footage in the area and interviewing neighbors and potential witnesses who may have seen anything suspicious around the time of the incident.
This case adds to a growing number of investigations involving elderly victims and stolen vehicles, although police have not confirmed if this particular incident follows any known pattern or trend in the area.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen or interacted with Richard Thomas in the days leading up to his death to come forward. Even minor details, they say, could assist in piecing together a clearer picture of what occurred.
The Galveston Police Department emphasized the importance of community assistance in these types of investigations. “The public’s help is often what makes the difference in solving a case like this,” an official with the department stated. “We’re asking anyone who has information, no matter how small, to reach out.”
As the investigation continues, police are also working with the medical examiner to determine the official cause of death. The autopsy results may provide further clarity on whether Thomas died from natural causes, foul play, or other circumstances.
For now, the case remains open and active. Galveston PD will provide updates as new information becomes available. In the meantime, community members are asked to remain alert, especially for sightings of the missing vehicle, and to report anything suspicious to local authorities.
The death of Richard Thomas has left many questions unanswered. For his family, friends, and neighbors, the search for justice—and for his missing vehicle—remains ongoing.