Wichita Falls police identify victim in Sunday's murder as popular dance instructor

Wichita Falls Times Record News

A popular dance instructor was identified Monday as the victim of a murder over the weekend.

Carolyn High, 65, was discovered Sunday afternoon when Wichita Falls police officers were dispatched to the 3500 block of Cumberland and discovered a deceased woman lying in a driveway, according to a department email.

Carolyn High, center, was remembered fondly by those inspired by her instruction and love of dance. High was discovered Sunday afternoon lying dead in her Wichita Falls driveway. Police are seeking information on the murder. Stephanie Medenwaldt, left, owner of Dance Etc., and her mother, Beckie Wirmel, surround High in this treasured photo.

High was listed as an instructor through the Wichita Falls Parks & Recreation Department, teaching country & Western dance. Her specialties were listed as: Two Step, Waltz, Shuffle, East Coast Swing and Two Step.

"Your first dance teacher will never leave your heart," Stephanie Medenwaldt, owner of Dance Etc., posted on Facebook. "Ms. Carolyn, you kicked off my love for dance from the very beginning. You are a huge part of why I am where I am now! I am forever grateful for you and your love for me that you have continued to show me over the years. I am so sorry we have to say goodbye to such a wonderful person."

Carolyn High, second from right, was remembered fondly by those inspired by her instruction and love of dance. High was discovered Sunday afternoon lying dead in her Wichita Falls driveway. Stacie Lopez, second from left, told the Times Record News High was at every one of her recitals. "She always let you know how proud of you she was." Also pictured, Beckie Wirmel, left, and Stephanie Medenwaldt, right, Lopez' mother and sister. Medenwaldt owns Dance Etc. and took her first dance class with High.

Medenwaldt's sister, Stacie Wirmel Lopez, an anchor for KTAB in Abilene, described High as part of the family.

"Carolyn is the reason my sister and I love the art of dance so much," Lopez told the Times Record News. "She was the first to instill that love for us. Even after moving on to a new studio, Carolyn was there every step of the way cheering us on. She was there for every recital. She always let you know just how proud of you she was."

A clip board could be seen posted on a wall at The 50 Zone where people signed alongside and around a smiling photo of High.

Wichita Falls Police Department spokesman Officer Jeff Hughes said in an emailed statement that the department is investigating her death. Initially, reports of the death did not include an identity as authorities were awaiting notification of next of kin.

Wichita Falls Crime Stoppers announced Monday a reward of up to $3,000 for information as part of their Fresh 48 program, which ends Wednesday at 8 a.m. If you have any information, call Crime Stoppers at 940-322-9888.

"Victim Carolyn High," the "Homicide: First 48 In Effect" release stated, "was found murdered in her driveway."

According to Hughes, the body will be sent to SWIFS in Dallas for an autopsy.