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 with signs of severe head trauma and sexual assault. Investigators ruled her death a homicide due to blunt force trauma. The identification of Anderson, now deceased, came through Forensic Genetic Genealogy, a method that has gained attention for solving cold cases. Evidence from the crime scene was analyzed by Othram, leading to a familial DNA match.

Local genealogist Lynda Keenan played a crucial role in connecting detectives with Anderson's relatives. Family members provided DNA samples, revealing connections that implicated Anderson. If he were still alive, the Spokane Police Department would pursue first-degree murder and first-degree rape charges against him. Authorities encourage anyone with additional information to reach out to Crime Check.