Houston, Texas – August 22, 2023
Pamela Ann Merritt, aged 43, has been arrested on charges of murder and theft in connection with the mysterious case of Colin Kerdachi, 78, who vanished during a winter storm in 2021. Merritt’s arrest follows her alleged confession to killing Kerdachi, hiding his body under stairs, and misleading authorities by suggesting the remains were those of a dead dog.
The events unfolded in February 2021, when Kerdachi was reported missing during severe weather conditions. The recent discovery of his body prompted a reexamination of the case, leading to Merritt’s apprehension.
During the initial investigation, tenant Joe Guy revealed that Merritt admitted to killing Kerdachi. This revelation led to Merritt’s hospitalization for a psychiatric evaluation.
In October 2021, another tenant, Tabitha Pope, reported unsettling discoveries within the building, including pools of blood and a knife. Merritt’s boyfriend, Michael Brown, also faces evidence tampering charges linked to these findings.
Merritt’s ingenuity inadvertently exposed the body’s location. She and Brown were attempting to conceal bloodstains, inadvertently revealing their involvement.
Autopsy results indicated that Kerdachi had suffered multiple stab wounds, suggesting a violent end to his life on February 15, 2021.
Brown’s arrest in March preceded Merritt’s charges in May. Despite evading authorities for a time, Merritt was recently captured.
She is currently held at Harris County Jail, with her bail set at $500,000.
The complexity of this case underscores the critical importance of meticulous investigative procedures.
