Full Notification

Advancements in DNA testing have aided OSBI agents in solving another cold case, prompting the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office to file murder charges in an 18-year-old case. July 26, 1997, 19-year-old Tiffany Johnston was abducted from the Sunshine Car Wash in Bethany. Her body was found the next day lying approximately 30 yards from Gregory Road just south of Interstate 40 in Canadian County. The medical examiner’s office determined she was strangled to death. The Bethany Police Department requested OSBI assist with the case early in its investigation. Hundreds of leads were followed by OSBI agents and Bethany Police detectives over the last 18 years. “We are thrilled that charges are being filed in this case. Tiffany’s murder devastated the community at the time. We are truly thankful that such a disturbing case like this is solved and justice will be served,” Phil Cole, Bethany Police Chief, says.
Biological evidence was collected from Tiffany’s body during the investigation, and OSBI biologists have performed multiple forensic tests on the evidence. Recent DNA results have identified William Lewis Reece (d.o.b. 7/1/1959) as a suspect in Tiffany’s murder. In past interviews with investigators, Reece admits to knowing Tiffany’s family. The owner of the Sunshine Car Wash where Tiffany was abducted told investigators Reece frequented the car wash. Telephone records put Reece at Interstate 40 and Mustang Road in Canadian County, approximately six miles from where Tiffany’s body was found, several hours after she was abducted.
“The investigation into the Tiffany Johnston murder that has finally been resolved reflects the continued need to further research DNA testing enhancements,” OSBI Director Stan Florence says. “Furthermore, because DNA has evolved into such an important aspect of criminal investigations, it is important we seriously consider future legislation that complements DNA forensic testing in cases like this. Because of these advancements, the investigation into Tiffany’s murder has finally reached this important point.”

Reece is currently incarcerated in a Texas prison for aggravated kidnapping and theft. He has also spent time in an Oklahoma prison for rape.