Suspect Identified in Unsolved Murder of Margaret Anselmo

Spokane Police have named Brian J. Anderson as the suspect in the 1997 murder of Margaret Anselmo, who was found dead with severe head trauma and signs of sexual assault. The Spokane County Medical Examiner ruled her death a homicide due to blunt force trauma. Investigators struggled for years to find a suspect until they collaborated with a Forensic Genetic Genealogy company. DNA evidence from the crime scene linked Anderson, now deceased, to the murder through family ties.

Family members provided DNA that supported the findings, revealing Anderson's direct connection to the crime. If alive, the Spokane Police would charge him with 1st Degree Murder and 1st Degree Rape. The case highlights the advancements in forensic techniques that can reopen cold cases. Authorities encourage anyone with further information to contact Crime Check.