After nearly seven years of searching, a man is behind bars in Texas with a connection to a 2002 murder in Rapelje.

Richard Phelps Edwards, 40, was arrested in Morris County, Texas Monday on one felony count of deliberate homicide.  His bail is set at $500,000.

Authorities believe he has a connection to the death of Daniel Lavigne of Rapelje.

Lavigne was 52 years old when he was found dead near his home about four miles west of Rapelje.

Since May 13, 2002, the ongoing investigation has been a joint effort between the Stillwater Sheriff's Office and the State of Montana.