Where is Michael Woods Now? 2024 Update & Background

Early Life and Marriage with Susan Woods

Michael Woods’ early life in Stephenville was marked by a sense of being an outsider. His distinct lifestyle choices, including his long hair, love for motorbikes, passion for guitar playing, and involvement in various odd jobs, set him apart in the small, conservative Texas town. His marriage to Susan Woods was a significant chapter in his life, bringing moments of happiness but also brewing conflicts over time.

The couple’s marriage, lasting around five-and-a-half years, began to falter due to differences in their aspirations and lifestyles. While Susan was content with life in Stephenville, Michael yearned for a change, feeling constrained by the small-town environment. Their diverging paths eventually led to a strained relationship, culminating in Susan filing for divorce.

As their marriage reached its end, Michael decided to leave Stephenville and relocate to Indianapolis. His move was primarily to assist his brother in a construction project, but it also marked his departure from a marriage and a town where he felt increasingly alienated. This relocation occurred amid the divorce proceedings and set the stage for the ensuing events following Susan’s untimely death.

The Aftermath of Susan Woods’ Murder

The turning point in Michael’s life came when he was blindsided by the news of Susan’s murder. Approached by Indianapolis police under the guise of discussing a parking issue, he was instead confronted with the horrific news. The shock of this revelation was profound, leaving Michael physically and emotionally distraught.

In the years following Susan’s death, Michael became the primary focus of the police investigation. The authorities, convinced of his involvement, subjected him to relentless scrutiny. He faced various charges and interrogations, all aimed at linking him to the murder. The investigators’ relentless pursuit was fueled by factors such as their tumultuous marriage, Susan’s expressed fears, and the existence of a life insurance policy.

Exoneration and Present Life

Michael’s prolonged ordeal came to an end with the arrest of Joseph Scott Hatley in 2006. The introduction of DNA and fingerprint evidence conclusively linked Hatley to Susan’s murder, exonerating Michael of any involvement. This development marked a significant turning point, freeing him from the cloud of suspicion that had overshadowed his life for nearly two decades.

After his exoneration, Michael embarked on a new chapter in his life, seeking to distance himself from the painful memories of the past. He reportedly remarried and relocated out of state, choosing to live a life away from the public eye.