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, utilizing Forensic Genetic Genealogy to solve the cold case. Anselmo's body was discovered on January 3, 1997, in an alley, showing signs of severe head trauma and indications of sexual assault. The Spokane County Medical Examiner ruled her death a homicide due to blunt force trauma. Detectives struggled to link a suspect to the case until recent advancements in DNA analysis led them to Anderson, who is now deceased.

Evidence from the crime scene was analyzed by Othram, a Texas-based forensic company, which helped develop a DNA profile. Local genealogist Lynda Keenan assisted in identifying Anderson's relatives, who provided DNA samples confirming his connection to the crime. If alive today, the Spokane Police would pursue first-degree murder and rape charges against him. This development highlights the effectiveness of modern forensic techniques in solving long-unsolved cases.