by | Published
MEDINA COUNTY, Texas — Two suspects have been arrested and charged with capital murder after a welfare check led investigators to uncover the deaths of a Mico couple, authorities said.
The investigation began April 8, 2026, when deputies with the Medina County Sheriff’s Office responded to a welfare concern after Stephen Rehbein failed to report to work. Deputies arrived at a residence in the 3300 block of County Road 265 but were unable to make contact with anyone. However, they observed signs indicating possible foul play and called investigators to the scene.
Authorities said further examination revealed additional evidence suggesting a crime had occurred. A search warrant was obtained, and investigators identified vehicles belonging to Rehbein. Using available technology, one of the vehicles was later located traveling in the Corpus Christi area.
With assistance from the Corpus Christi Police Department, officers conducted a traffic stop to check on Rehbein’s welfare. The vehicle was occupied by two adults, identified as Cassandra Lange, 29, and Joby Williams, 30, along with two children. Lange was identified as the biological daughter of Cherry Rehbein, the wife of Stephen Rehbein.
A Medina County chief deputy and a Texas Ranger traveled to Corpus Christi and interviewed the suspects. During questioning, authorities said Lange confessed that she and Williams killed her mother and stepfather and disposed of their bodies in a ravine.
Investigators in Medina County then began a search in the Medina Lake area. After several hours, deputies located two large garbage bags concealed in a ravine off FM 1283. With assistance from emergency personnel, two bodies were recovered and transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsy.
Lange and Williams were taken into custody and charged with capital murder of multiple persons in connection with the deaths of Stephen and Cherry Rehbein. Authorities said two children, ages 6 years and 1 month, were placed with Child Protective Services and are being reunited with family members.
Officials said the investigation progressed rapidly, with the initial call received around 12:15 p.m., deputies arriving at the residence around 1 p.m., and the suspects taken into custody by approximately 7 p.m.
Lange’s bond was set at $150,000, while Williams’ bond was set at $200,000. Both remain in custody.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.
