DENTON, TX – A Texas man confessed to authorities that he killed his fiancée, living with her decomposed body for more than a week before leaving due to the overpowering odor, according to police records.
William Joseph Oddo III, 52, is facing murder charges following the discovery of LaVera Wardell’s body in their Denton apartment on May 19. Oddo told detectives that he initially remained with Wardell’s corpse for three days after the shooting, later leaving upon realizing the extent of the stench.
In his account, Oddo claimed the shooting was in self-defense after Wardell allegedly came at him with a knife during an argument. He chose not to report the incident to authorities as he wished to avoid discussing it with anyone, stated the arrest affidavit.
The gruesome discovery unfolded when police responded to a call about a “very foul smell” emanating from the couple’s apartment. This prompted officers to secure a search warrant, leading to the heart-wrenching find of Wardell’s body.
According to the police, Oddo made substantial attempts to erase evidence of the crime. Investigators identified the use of cleaning supplies to remove bloodstains from surfaces within the residence. Items were also found ostensibly utilized to suppress the odor.
Police inquiries revealed that before her disappearance on May 6, Wardell had been in contact with Oddo. Witnesses subsequently noted Oddo’s departure from the apartment on May 14, aligning with the date authorities suspect he left the scene.
Detectives pursued Oddo, who was eventually apprehended on June 2 at a motel in Mount Pleasant. At the time of his arrest, he faced charges of tampering with physical evidence, with the murder charge following shortly thereafter.
Neighbors expressed shock and sorrow at the grim events, commenting on the proximity of the crime to public areas within the complex. “It’s honestly heartbreaking,” expressed one resident.
Oddo is currently held in Denton County Jail, with bail set at $160,000, awaiting further legal proceedings in connection with Wardell’s death.