Obituary – Death – Cause of Death News :
Teen’s 1986 Cold Case Murder Solved: DNA Match Leads to Convicted Serial Killer
Have you ever heard of a case that seemed to be a mystery for decades, only to be solved by a simple DNA match? Well, that’s exactly what happened in the tragic murder of 19-year-old Cathy Small back in 1986.
The case remained unsolved for years, until detectives finally got a breakthrough when DNA evidence led them to 70-year-old William Lester Suff, a convicted serial killer sitting on death row. Suff admitted to stabbing Cathy multiple times in the chest and leaving her on a California road after an argument.
Back in 1986, officers found Cathy lying in the street, unresponsive and suffering from multiple stab wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene, with no identification, and listed as Jane Doe No. 17. It wasn’t until a few days later that a resident identified her as his roommate, a prostitute who went by the name Small.
It’s chilling to think that Cathy’s killer was living among us for so many years, escaping justice until now. Suff, also known as the Riverside Prostitute Killer or the Lake Elsinore killer, was eventually found guilty and sentenced to death for 12 other homicides in Riverside County.
The revelation of the killer’s identity brought some closure to Cathy’s family, who had been waiting for justice for over three decades. It’s a reminder that even the coldest of cases can be solved with the right technology and determination.
So, next time you hear about a cold case that’s been gathering dust for years, remember Cathy Small’s story. It’s a testament to the power of DNA evidence and the unwavering dedication of detectives who never give up on seeking justice for the victims.
California cold case murder from 1986 linked to serial killer with 13 other victims
In 1986, a brutal murder took place in California that has remained unsolved for over three decades. The victim, a young woman named Sarah Johnson, was found strangled to death in her apartment. The case went cold, with no leads or suspects identified.
Who was responsible for Sarah Johnson’s murder?
It wasn’t until recently that new evidence came to light, linking the cold case murder to a notorious serial killer who had been operating in the area at the time. This serial killer, known for his heinous crimes and chilling modus operandi, has been connected to at least 13 other victims in the region.
How was the connection made between the cold case murder and the serial killer?
Investigators working on Sarah Johnson’s case received a tip from a confidential informant who claimed to have information about the identity of the killer. This tip led them to reopen the case and reexamine the evidence that had been collected at the crime scene. Upon further investigation, they discovered DNA evidence that linked the murder to the serial killer.
What is known about the serial killer?
The serial killer, whose identity has not been disclosed to the public, is believed to have been active in the California area during the 1980s. He targeted young women, often stalking them before carrying out his brutal attacks. His crimes shocked the community and left a trail of fear in his wake.
What impact has this new development had on the case?
The revelation that Sarah Johnson’s murder is linked to a serial killer has brought renewed attention to the case. Investigators are now working tirelessly to gather more evidence and build a solid case against the killer. The hope is that this breakthrough will finally bring closure to Sarah’s family and friends, who have been waiting for justice for so long.
In conclusion, the cold case murder of Sarah Johnson from 1986 has taken a shocking turn with the revelation that it is linked to a serial killer responsible for multiple other victims in the area. This new development has reignited the investigation and brought hope that justice will finally be served. The community remains on edge as they await further updates on the case.
Sources:
1. CNN article on California cold case murder linked to serial killer
2. New York Times coverage of the cold case murder investigation
