Payne Springs Man Arrested on Murder Charge

Henderson County Sheriff’s Office press release

On Saturday, Aug. 2, at approximately 4:30 a.m., the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office responded to a death investigation at 7050 Porthville Drive near Payne Springs. Clyde Jason Tennison, who lives at the residence reported finding Deborah Denise Allen deceased inside the residence.

Tennison suggested that the Allen’s death was a suicide. HCSO Sergeant Rose and Deputy Thompson responded to the location where they found Deborah Allen dead inside the residence. HCSO Lieutenant Kendell Wellman arrived on the scene along with HCSO investigators Nick Webb, Cayce Hampton and Texas Ranger Michael Adcock. Henderson County Justice of the Peace Tommy Barnett was called to the scene for an inquest.

During the course of the investigation, evidence suggested that Allen’s death was not consistent with suicide. Investigators learned the Allen was in a relationship with Clyde Tennison and lived in the residence with him. Search warrants for the residence, Tennison’s vehicle and Tennison were prepared and presented to Henderson County District Judge Dan Moore. Search warrants were granted and executed on Saturday. Barnett ordered that Allen’s body be sent to the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Science for an autopsy.

Preliminary autopsy findings revealed that Allen had blunt force trauma, lacerations and stab wounds to her facial and neck areas that were inconsistent with suicide. Investigator Hampton sought and was granted an arrest warrant, issued by 173rd Judicial District Judge Dan Moore.

Tennison was arrested and transported to the Henderson County Detention Center. He was charged with murder and a $1,000,000 bond has been set. Tennison remains in custody. The investigation continues.

Henderson County District Attorney Scott McKee and his staff aided in the investigation.