Montague County Sheriff Marshall Thomas announced that the remains found along Brushy Creek on June 13 have been positively identified as Rana Nofal Soluri, a 47‑year‑old flight attendant from Fort Worth. The discovery, made by a local fisherman, was followed the next day by forensic specialists from the University of North Texas Forensic Anthropology Center, who recovered the remains and later confirmed the identity through DNA analysis.
Background of the disappearance
Soluri was reported missing on June 11, 2025 after a coworker grew concerned when she could not be reached. Investigators determined that she was last known to be alive in March 2025. The case quickly focused on her longtime friend and housemate, Dennis William Day, who had lived with Soluri for about a year.
Day was arrested in June 2025 and subsequently indicted on a murder charge. He remains incarcerated at the Tarrant County Jail on a $200,000 bond. According to an affidavit, Day told Fort Worth police that he strangled Soluri during a confrontation in their Fort Worth home. Surveillance footage from March 21 appears to show Day dragging a lifeless body from the residence into the backyard.
Alleged disposal of the body
Day later claimed he placed Soluri’s body in a black trash bin, drove toward Bowie, and dumped it over a bridge. Police searched multiple sites near Bowie but did not locate the remains at that time. Fort Worth homicide Detective Tom O’Brien told the Fort Worth Star‑Telegram that the remains may have been covered by mud when investigators initially searched the area a year earlier.
In addition to Day, authorities have charged Joanne Walters—also known as Joni Thomas—with tampering with evidence with intent to impair a human corpse. Walters is alleged to have assisted Day in disposing of the body. Her case also remains pending.
Family receives answers
Fort Worth Police spokesperson Daniel Segura said the identification provides much‑needed answers for Soluri’s family. “I can only imagine what they are going through. As far as the investigation, at least we have some of those answers for them,” he said.
Police have not yet received a pathologist’s determination on the cause or manner of death. The investigation continues, and authorities have urged anyone with additional information to contact law enforcement.
Community response
The tragic loss of a young professional who served the community as a flight attendant has resonated throughout Fort Worth and the surrounding area. Local faith leaders have offered prayers for Soluri’s family, emphasizing the importance of supporting one another during such painful times.
Law‑enforcement officials commend the diligent work of the sheriff’s office, forensic team, and detectives who have pursued this case despite its challenges. Their perseverance underscores the community’s commitment to seeking justice and providing closure for grieving families.
Original reporting: WBAP News/Talk (Dallas-Fort Worth) — read the source article.
