Odell "Skipper" Wells Jr., a 43-year-old man from Dayton, Texas, tragically lost his life on October 13, 2019. He was known for his loving nature and strong bond with his son, Christopher Allen Wells, who also passed away on the same day. The father and son were avid outdoorsmen who enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping together. Skipper Wells Jr. was a dedicated worker and a caring family man who left behind his wife Shawnda Bell, daughter Cassandra Wells, sons Travis Wells and Tyler Holloway,
and his grandson Tristin Cook.
The investigation into Skipper Wells Jr.'s death revealed that he, along with his son and another man named Walter Brown, was murdered by Andrew Jared Bass. Bass, who was 32 years old at the time, lured the victims to his property with promises of beer, food, cigarettes, and drugs. He then shot all three men with a shotgun inside a detached shop at his residence. Bass claimed self-defense, alleging that the victims were stealing from him, but no evidence supported his story. The investigation showed that Bass had actually invited the victims to his home, bought them drinks and drugs, and then brutally murdered them.
On October 28, 2021, a jury found Andrew Jared Bass guilty of capital murder and sentenced him to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The trial revealed that Bass had removed surveillance cameras from his property after the murders, further implicating him in the crime. The families of Skipper Wells Jr., Christopher Wells, and Walter Brown finally received justice for their loved ones' tragic deaths.
The case highlighted the importance of thorough investigations and the pursuit of justice, even when the circumstances are complex and emotionally challenging. The community of Dayton, TX, and the families of the victims continue to remember and honor the lives of Skipper Wells Jr. and Christopher Wells, who were taken from them far too soon.
