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, whose body was found showing signs of severe head trauma and sexual assault. The Spokane County Medical Examiner classified her death as a homicide due to blunt force trauma. For years, detectives struggled to find a suspect until they enlisted the help of Forensic Genetic Genealogy, which ultimately led to Anderson's identification. Local genealogist Lynda Keenan played a crucial role by tracing family connections, resulting in DNA samples from Anderson's relatives that confirmed his identity.

If he were alive today, police would charge him with first-degree murder and first-degree rape. This breakthrough marks a significant moment in a case that has haunted the Spokane community for over two decades. The use of advanced genetic techniques highlights the evolving capabilities of law enforcement in solving cold cases. Authorities encourage anyone with additional information to reach out to Crime Check.