Cold Case Files: Homicide of Idabel man found beside Leflore County roadside in 2011 has never been resolved

On February 21, 2001, James "Arthur" Burris, 42, was found dead on a roadside in LeFlore County,shot multiple times.

Reported missing from Idabel in McCurtain County on January 25, 2001, his body was discovered nearly a month later, about 60 miles from his hometown.

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) has been investigating the homicide, but the case remains unsolved.

Burris’s body showed signs of a violent attack, and investigators believe he was killed elsewhere before being left on the roadside. Despite efforts to follow leads, the OSBI has found little evidence to identify a suspect or motive.

The agency’s Cold Case Unit continues to review the case, hoping new forensic techniques or tips will provide a breakthrough.

The OSBI is asking for the public’s help. Anyone with information about Burris’s disappearance or death is urged to contact the OSBI at cold.case@osbi.ok.gov.

Even small details could be critical to solving this 24-year-old mystery and bringing justice for Burris.