Elwin (Larry) Costine was last seen early on the morning of May 3, 1992, when he dropped a friend off after having been to a rodeo the night before. When last seen, he was in the company of Melissa Jo Sermons, who he was reported to be dating. On May 4, 1992, Costine was found in his residence, murdered. He had been shot several times.

At the time he was discovered, there was no sign of Sermons at his residence. It was learned from her family that she did not return home after leaving with Costine to attend the rodeo. Foul play is also suspected in the disappearance of Sermons.