In the early morning of June 30, 2022, a tragic incident unfolded at the old Lufkin paper mill in Angelina County, Texas. What used to be a busy factory for over 60 years is now an abandoned site—and recently, the location of a fatal shooting that shocked the community.
Man Fatally Shot While Allegedly Stealing Copper
Just before 5:30 AM, former Angelina County Sheriff Greg Sanches received a call. A man had been shot and killed on the paper mill property by someone working for the property owner.
The deceased was identified as Kenneth Holley, a 56-year-old man from Houston. Authorities believe he was trying to steal copper from the mill when the incident occurred.
According to reports from KTRE, the person accused of the shooting is Dean Schroeder, 53. He recently appeared in Judge Bob Inselmann’s court for his arraignment, the first step in the legal process.
A Forgotten Landmark Now Plagued by Trespassers
The Lufkin paper mill, once a symbol of economic strength in East Texas, has now become a decaying structure that attracts trespassers, often looking for metal like copper to sell.
For decades, the mill provided stable jobs and good retirement benefits. Many long-time Lufkin residents either worked there or know someone who did. But when the mill closed, it left behind not only a massive structure but also a security problem.
The site on State Highway 103 East is huge, with many buildings and hiding spots. Despite being fenced, it has been broken into many times, and several people have been arrested for trying to steal items.
Why Did This Encounter Turn Deadly?
This case is now in the hands of the court, and we still don’t know exactly what led to the use of deadly force. That’s something only a full investigation and court trial can answer.
What we do know is this: copper theft is a serious issue at the mill, and the property owner had someone watching the site. But was shooting necessary in this case? That’s a question the legal system will decide.
As of now, Dean Schroeder has not been convicted. The facts will be examined in court, and the hope is that the full truth will come out.