Suspect Identified in Unsolved Murder of Margaret Anselmo

Spokane Police have identified Brian J. Anderson as the suspect in the 1997 murder of Margaret Anselmo, who was discovered with severe head trauma and signs of sexual assault. Forensic Genetic Genealogy was instrumental in linking Anderson, who is now deceased, to the murder scene. The Spokane County Medical Examiner classified Anselmo's death as a homicide due to blunt force trauma. Detectives received support from Othram, a Texas-based company, to analyze preserved evidence.

Family members of Anderson provided DNA that confirmed his relationship to the crime, with one being his child and another his half-brother. If alive, authorities would pursue 1st Degree Murder and 1st Degree Rape charges against him. The case highlights the importance of advanced forensic techniques in solving cold cases. SPD urges anyone with further information to reach out to Crime Check for assistance.