The Denton Police Department has announced charges against 53-year-old Michael Tooley in the murder of 20-year-old Dylan Gurley. Around 11:10 p.m. on July 23, 2024, DPD officers responded to an abandoned house in the 3700 block of Holland Lane for an unconscious person.

The victim, Gurley, was transported to an area hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. Detectives say Tooley and Gurley had been staying at the abandoned property. Witness interviews allegedly determined that Tooley was upset about money he was missing on July 23.

He had previously made statements about hurting or killing the next person he believed stole from him, according to DPD. Witnesses say there were past disturbances between the two.

Police say Tooley was with the 911 caller when Gurley was found unresponsive. He allegedly fled the scene before police arrived. On July 24, Tooley was arrested on an unrelated Indecent Exposure warrant. He has remained in custody since his arrest.

Detectives say Tooley confirmed having a history of altercations with Gurley although he denied his involvement in his murder. Detectives say Tooley made statements implicating himself in the murder during jail phone conversations.

Tooley is now charged with Murder.