Former sheriff to aid cold case investigation into couple's murder

A former Florida sheriff will work to solve a high-profile double murder that occurred nearly three decades ago.

During a press conference Thursday, it was announced that retired Bay County Sheriff Frank McKeithen will be an integral part a cold case investigation into the murders of Robert and Kathryn McRae, shot at their Graceville home in 1989.

”We've got probable cause to arrest a lot of people but we can't because we don't have that bit of information that would help do it," McKeithen said.

There has, for years, been speculation the murders might be linked to an Alabama cold case. About eight months after the McRae’s were killed, Acie and Carolyn Worthy were murdered in Tuscaloosa County.

The Worthy’s were killed upon returning home from evening church services---ambushed, then dragged inside their home before it was set on fire.

The McRae’s were shot execution style inside their home. Investigators believe the couple died the day before their bodies were discovered.

There are similarities between the two cases. Both couples were considered wealthy though robbery isn’t believed the motive. Robert McRae and Acie Worthy were well connected business people. Enemies, if any, were not publicly known.

The McRae’s were in their early 70’s, about the same age of Acie Worthy. His wife was 55.

Jackson County Sheriff Lou Roberts said that he has recently been in touch with Alabama authorities regarding the cases even though he's not sure they're related.,

"We're looking lots of places and we don't know where the investigation will take us but we are committed to solving this crime," he said.,

He believes McKeithen adds a fresh, new perspective to the probe.