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 found dead in an alley with severe head trauma. Investigators ruled her death a homicide due to blunt force trauma and struggled for years to find a suspect. The breakthrough came with the help of Forensic Genetic Genealogy, which analyzed preserved evidence from the crime scene. Local genealogist Lynda Keenan assisted in identifying Anderson, now deceased, through family DNA connections.

Authorities would pursue 1st Degree Murder and 1st Degree Rape charges against him if he were alive today. The case highlights the evolving role of genetic technology in solving cold cases. Detectives are actively seeking additional information from the public. Interested individuals can contact Crime Check for tips related to the case.