SAN ANTONIO – The husband of missing Olmos Park woman Suzanne Simpson has been charged with murder, even though authorities have yet to find the woman’s body.

Brad Simpson, 44, was charged with the crime last week, raising questions about how prosecutors will proceed in a case where such critical evidence is still missing.

Former Bexar County District Attorney Nico LaHood explained the complexities of trying a murder case without the victim’s body.

“This is not a common situation,” LaHood said. “Usually a body is found. Before you can charge someone with murder, you have to prove that a murder actually occurred and then attribute that murder to the defendant.”

Despite the lack of a body, LaHood believes the prosecution will rely on circumstantial evidence, such as statements and financial records, to build its case against Brad Simpson.

“The time period in which this accusation was made is particularly concerning,” LaHood said. “There seems to be a short period of time to prove the case, but maybe they have something else to pin it on. There’s nothing definitive or figuratively definitive.”

While the investigation continues, the search for 42-year-old Suzanne Simpson continues.

In addition to Brad Simpson, Brad’s business partner James Cotter was also arrested last week on charges of tampering with evidence and illegal weapons possession.

Cotter was released last Friday on a reduced bond of $100,000.

LaHood emphasized that although Cotter was released, all evidence will be taken into account as the case develops.

LaHood cautioned that even if Suzanne Simpson’s body was found, that alone would not automatically lead to a conviction.

“Finding the body will definitely strengthen the prosecution’s case,” he said. “But it is important to remember that circumstantial evidence, whether it comes from a witness or the body found, still plays a role in strengthening direct evidence.”

As of now, there is no set date for when the case will go to trial, and no new information has emerged regarding Suzanne Simpson’s whereabouts.

Authorities have promised to continue the search and updates will be provided as soon as they are available.