The Yogurt Shop Murders Review: HBO True Crime Docuseries

The Yogurt Shop Murders is a four-part HBO Original True Crime docuseries that delves into the tragic murders of four teenage girls in 1991 at an I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt shop in Austin, Texas. The victims were Amy Ayers (13), sisters Jennifer Harbison (17) and Sarah Harbison (15), and Eliza Thomas (17). The girls were not only shot but the shop was also set on fire, destroying crucial evidence.

Back in 1991, the use of DNA technology was still in its early stages, making it difficult to solve such cases. However, The Yogurt Shop Murders documentary combines new footage with an abandoned project from 2009, shedding new light on the investigation. The series features interviews with homicide detectives, suspects, their defense attorneys, and relatives of the victims, providing a comprehensive look at the case.

One of the strengths of The Yogurt Shop Murders is its focus on the victims and their families, giving a voice to those affected by the tragedy. The documentary reveals the challenges faced by law enforcement in solving the case and the impact of false confessions on the investigation. Despite the lack of physical evidence against the suspects and inconsistencies in the confessions, the case remains unsolved, leaving a cloud of uncertainty over the tragedy.

Directed by Margaret Brown and produced by A24 and Fruit Tree, The Yogurt Shop Murders offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of true crime investigations. Premiering on HBO on August 3, 2025, and available for streaming on HBO Max, this series is a poignant reminder of the lasting effects of crime on communities and the pursuit of justice.