The 2012 attempted murder of Nancy Howard stunned the nation—not only for its brutality, but for the betrayal that lay at its center. What began as a shocking act of violence quickly unraveled into a calculated murder-for-hire plot, masterminded by someone no one expected: her husband. Over a decade later, the Nancy Howard case remains a powerful example of survival, justice, and the complexities of personal betrayal.
This article provides a detailed, factual timeline of events surrounding the case, outlining how the crime unfolded, the investigation that followed, and the legal consequences that brought closure to an unforgettable tragedy.
Who Is Nancy Howard?
Nancy Howard was a well-known figure in her Carrollton, Texas, community. A devoted mother and active church member, she lived a quiet life grounded in faith and family. But on August 18, 2012, her world changed forever when she became the target of a planned execution in her own garage.
What followed was a high-profile investigation that exposed the dark motivations behind the attack and captivated true crime audiences for years to come.
Timeline of Events
August 18, 2012 – The Attack
Nancy Howard returned home from a church event and parked in her garage. A man approached her and shot her point-blank in the face. Despite suffering a devastating injury—including losing an eye—she survived and was able to call for help.
Her incredible survival set the stage for one of the most complex and emotionally charged investigations in recent memory.
August–September 2012 – The Investigation Begins
Police began piecing together the circumstances of the shooting. Initial speculation centered on a potential robbery, but inconsistencies quickly emerged.
Nancy’s survival provided critical information that allowed investigators to challenge the narrative presented by her husband, John Howard, whose behavior after the attack raised suspicions.
Fall 2012 – Shocking Discovery of a Murder Plot
Further investigation uncovered a murder-for-hire plot. Authorities found that John Howard had been conducting an extramarital affair and stood to benefit financially from Nancy’s death through a life insurance policy.
The crime was not random—it was premeditated, with multiple intermediaries hired to carry out the hit.
2013 – Arrests and Charges Filed
John Howard was arrested and charged with solicitation of capital murder. Additional individuals involved in the plot—including the hitman and middlemen—were also arrested and prosecuted.
The evidence included financial records, communication trails, and witness testimony, all pointing toward a deliberate and organized attempt to end Nancy’s life.
2014 – Trial and Conviction
In a high-profile courtroom trial, John Howard was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. His conviction brought relief and closure to Nancy, her family, and the wider community.
Several co-conspirators were also convicted, marking the end of a legal process that exposed the full extent of the betrayal.
Life After the Attack: Nancy Howard’s Recovery and Resilience
After surviving the shooting, Nancy Howard faced a long road to physical and emotional recovery. She underwent multiple surgeries to repair facial damage and adjust to the loss of her eye. In the years following the attack, she focused on healing, supported by her faith and community.
Despite the trauma, Nancy chose to respond not with vengeance, but with forgiveness and courage. She has occasionally spoken to groups about her experience, emphasizing themes of resilience, grace, and spiritual growth.
Public Interest and Ongoing Curiosity
The Nancy Howard case continues to draw attention from true crime audiences, law enforcement professionals, and individuals interested in stories of survival. Documentaries, podcasts, and case studies regularly revisit the incident because of its emotional depth and legal complexity.
Many still search her name to learn more about her life today, her recovery, and whether she remains alive. As of 2025, Nancy Howard is alive and living privately, having intentionally stepped back from public life to focus on personal well-being.
Why the Case Resonates Today
Several themes make the Nancy Howard case deeply impactful, even more than a decade later:
- Domestic betrayal from a trusted spouse
- Survival against extraordinary odds
- Faith as a foundation for healing
- Justice achieved through persistent investigation
- The psychological toll of attempted murder and recovery
It serves as a stark reminder that danger can arise even in seemingly safe relationships—and that healing is possible through strength and support.
Current Status of Key Individuals
| Person | Status as of 2025 |
|---|---|
| Nancy Howard | Alive, living privately in Texas, occasionally speaks on faith and recovery |
| John Howard | Serving a life sentence without parole for solicitation of capital murder |
| Hitman & Intermediaries | Convicted and imprisoned; multiple parties faced sentencing based on their role in the plot |
Conclusion: A Story of Survival, Strength, and Justice
The 2012 Nancy Howard case is not just a tale of crime—it is a story of resilience, transformation, and justice. Nancy’s ability to survive such a brutal attack, face the truth of her husband’s betrayal, and still move forward with dignity and purpose continues to inspire people today.
As of 2025, her life stands as a testament to inner strength, faith-driven recovery, and the power of the human spirit to overcome unimaginable trauma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nancy Howard still alive in 2025?
Yes. Nancy Howard is alive and living a private life in Texas. There are no credible reports suggesting otherwise.
What happened to John Howard?
He was convicted of solicitation of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole.
Why did he plan her murder?
Motivated by an extramarital affair and financial gain, John Howard orchestrated the plot to collect life insurance and start a new life.
Has Nancy Howard spoken publicly?
Only occasionally. She has shared her story in faith-based settings focused on healing and resilience.
Where is Nancy Howard now?
She continues to live privately, focusing on healing and spiritual growth after surviving one of the most chilling crimes in recent memory.