San Luis Obispo County, CA – The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office has officially solved a 1983 highway murder, closing a case that has remained unsolved for more than four decades.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies discovered the victim’s body on November 15, 1983, inside a van parked off Highway 1 near Hearst Castle. Despite early investigative efforts, few leads emerged, and the case went cold for years.
Cold Case Detective Clint Cole reopened the investigation using advanced forensic techniques, including DNA genealogy analysis. Blood evidence from the scene identified a Texas man through genetic comparison with a close relative. Fingerprints found on a soda can also tied a second Texas resident to the location.
Both suspects have since died, but investigators determined they were likely involved in the killing during a burglary or theft. No additional suspects are believed to be involved.
“This case demonstrates the power of modern forensic science and persistence,” said Sheriff Ian Parkinson, commending investigators for their continued pursuit of justice.
The District Attorney’s Office reviewed the evidence and confirmed sufficient probable cause would have supported prosecution had the suspects been alive. The case has now been officially closed as “exceptionally cleared.”
The Sheriff’s Office thanked Parabon Nanolabs, Othram Labs, and the Phoenix Police Department for their assistance in solving the decades-old case.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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