Suspect Identified in Unsolved Murder of Margaret Anselmo

Spokane Police identified Brian J. Anderson as the suspect in the 1997 murder of Margaret Anselmo, who was found dead in an alley with signs of severe head trauma and sexual assault. The case remained unsolved for years until detectives utilized Forensic Genetic Genealogy to make the connection. Anderson, who has since died, was identified through DNA analysis conducted by Othram, a forensic lab in Texas. Local genealogist Lynda Keenan helped identify Anderson's relatives, who provided crucial DNA samples.

This analysis confirmed that one relative was his child and another was his half-brother, pointing to Anderson as the sole suspect. If he were alive, Anderson would face serious charges of 1st Degree Murder and 1st Degree Rape. The Spokane Police encourage anyone with additional information to contact Crime Check at 509. 456. 2233.

This case highlights the importance of modern forensic techniques in solving cold cases.