An 84-year-old man has been charged in connection with the 1974 cold case murder of a hitchhiker in Wisconsin, thanks to a DNA breakthrough that led investigators to him. The case, which had remained unsolved for nearly five decades, was finally cracked with the help of technology that wasn’t available at the time of the crime.
The victim, a young hitchhiker whose identity has not been disclosed, was found dead in a remote area in Wisconsin in 1974. Despite the efforts of investigators at the time, the case eventually went cold and remained unsolved for years.
However, recent advancements in DNA analysis allowed investigators to re-examine evidence that had been collected from the crime scene. A hat left behind by the suspect was found to contain DNA that matched that of the now 84-year-old man, who has been identified as a suspect in the case.
The man has been charged with the murder of the hitchhiker and is set to stand trial for the crime. The breakthrough in the case serves as a reminder of the power of forensic technology in solving cold cases and bringing closure to families of victims.
Authorities have not disclosed any further details about the case or the suspect, but the arrest serves as a testament to the determination and dedication of law enforcement in pursuing justice for victims of unsolved crimes.
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Video “84-year-old charged in 1974 cold case murder of hitchhiker thanks to DNA from hat left at scene” was uploaded on 11/10/2024 to Youtube Channel New York Post