July 26, 2011 - Houston police are investigating the death of a female found in the 4700 block of the South Freeway (State Highway 288) about 4:30 a.m. today (July 27).

Valerie Ricks, 55, of Houston, suffered an gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead at the scene.  A photo of Ms. Ricks is attached to the news release.

HPD Homicide Divison Sergeant K. McGray and Senior Police Officer T. Tyler reported:

Houston police responded to a report of a female's body found on the service road of the South Freeway.  Ms. Ricks was found nude from the waist down and appeared to have suffered a gunshot wound to the head.

Investigators are asking anyone with information on the whereabouts of Ms. Ricks prior to her death to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

Valerie Ricks



JKS/VHS 7-27-11
Inc. #097200511