Former Odessa Mayor David Turner Dies

Texas Rangers assisting in death investigation, no foul play suspected

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Former Odessa Mayor David Turner passed away on March 3, 2026, according to the Crane County Sheriff's Office. The Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed that Texas Rangers are assisting in the death investigation, though officials stated that no foul play is suspected and the cause of death has not yet been released.

Why it matters

Turner served as mayor of Odessa from 2012 to 2020, and his leadership and vision were credited with shaping the city for the better during his time in office. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from the Odessa community, who are mourning the loss of a respected public servant and community leader.

The details

The Crane County Sheriff's Office reported Turner's death on March 3, 2026. Texas Rangers are assisting in the investigation, but officials have stated that no foul play is suspected. A cause of death has not yet been released, and the investigation remains active.

  • Turner died on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

The players

David Turner

Former mayor of Odessa, Texas, who served from 2012 to 2020.

Cal Hendrick

Current mayor of Odessa, who released a statement mourning the passing of former mayor David Turner.

Texas Rangers

Law enforcement agency assisting the Crane County Sheriff's Office in the death investigation of former Odessa mayor David Turner.

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What they’re saying

“It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of former Odessa Mayor David Turner on March 3, 2026. He served our city from 2012 to 2020, and during his time in office, his leadership and education helped shape Odessa for the better. His vision, integrity and tireless service to our community will be remembered for generations.”

— Cal Hendrick, Current Mayor of Odessa (mrt.com)

What’s next

The investigation into former Mayor Turner's death remains active, and officials have not yet released a cause of death.

The takeaway

David Turner's passing has left a significant void in the Odessa community, where he was remembered as a respected public servant, community leader, and man of strong faith who dedicated himself to improving the city he loved.