Blood tied to a missing Texas woman confirms she was seriously injured. Deputies are intensifying their search for a key Polaris UTV tied to the case.
BRAZOS COUNTY, Texas — The Brazos County Sheriff’s Office announced Wednesday that new forensic evidence is raising serious concerns in the disappearance of Nicole “Nikki” Winder, a 53-year-old mother who has been missing since Feb. 25.
Investigators said the blood found a day after Winder vanished belongs to her, and the amount indicates she suffered a serious injury. The discovery, combined with earlier evidence, has led authorities to classify the case as highly suspicious.
Editor’s note: The video in this article is from a previous report.
Key update in the case
According to the sheriff’s office, investigators found blood on Feb. 26 in a wooded driveway off FM 974, on the same property where Winder was last seen.
That evidence has now been tested, with results confirming it is Winder’s.
Investigators said the finding adds urgency to the case, especially when paired with what happened hours after she disappeared: Winder’s white 2025 Chevy truck was found burning at an oil pad site. Authorities have determined the fire was intentionally set.
Focus on Polaris UTV
The investigation is also zeroing in on a Polaris UTV seen in security camera footage from Feb. 25.
After releasing the footage, deputies received tips identifying a specific Polaris. Investigators are working to confirm whether that vehicle matches the one captured on camera. The last four digits of the VIN they are searching for are 7827.
So far, the vehicle has not been located.
Crime Stoppers is offering two rewards: $1,000 for information leading to the recovery of the Polaris, and a separate reward for information that helps determine what happened to Winder.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have seen the Polaris being moved, stored, or transported on or after Feb. 25 to come forward.
Ongoing investigation efforts
Deputies said the case remains active, with multiple search warrants executed across several properties tied to the investigation.
Search teams have extensively combed areas along FM 974, including ground searches supported by forensic analysis. Investigators are also reviewing physical and digital evidence as results continue to come in.
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Officials said each new piece of information is being carefully analyzed as they pursue leads from the public and partner agencies.
Background: disappearance and early search
Winder was last seen leaving work on Feb. 25. Later that same day, deputies responded to a report of a truck on fire near an oil well off FM 974 — a vehicle that was later identified as hers.
When authorities and family members were unable to reach her, concern quickly grew.
Early in the search, crews used helicopters, drones and K9 teams to canvass the area but found no trace of Winder.
Investigators also identified a possible person of interest — someone seen riding an ATV near where the truck was found — though they were initially unsure of any connection.
At the time, officials said they hoped Winder would be found safe but acknowledged the possibility she could be in danger.
Call for information
Investigators continue to urge anyone with information — no matter how small — to come forward.
Anyone who saw activity in the area of FM 974, particularly between Highway 21 and Macey Road, on or around Feb. 25, is asked to contact the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office at 979-361-4900 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
Officials said the community’s help remains critical as Winder’s family waits for answers.
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