North Texas police arrest man they say killed his girlfriend who was reported missing on July 20

Evidence gathered by local police led them to the home of Donny Benedict, 38, who was later arrested and charged with murder.

CARROLLTON, Texas — The Carrollton Police Department arrested a man this week, accusing him of killing his girlfriend who was reported missing just days before, officials said.

The North Texas Emergency Communications Center (NTECC) got a call around 8 a.m. on July 21 reporting an unconscious person in a vehicle on the shoulder of southbound I-35E near the 2500 block in Carrollton.

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When Carrollton police and fire rescue personnel arrived, they found 41-year-old Vera Pitulic dead in the vehicle.

Grapevine police let the Carrollton officers know that they found Pitulic’s vehicle with help from license plate readers. They also told Carrollton police that Pitulic was reported missing on July 20.

Evidence gathered by the two departments led Carrollton detectives to search the home of Donny Benedict, 38, who police identified as Pitulic’s boyfriend. More evidence was gathered at Benedict’s home, police said.

The Texas Department of Public Safety helped local police find Benedict, who was arrested and later transferred to the Collin County Jail.

Police are continuing to investigate Pitulic’s death.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Carrollton Police Department at (972)466-3333 or *247.