78-year-old man sentenced for 1982 Sunnyvale cold case murder of teen Karen Stitt

Gary Ramirez, 78, was sentenced to 25 years to life for the 1982 murder of 15-year-old Karen Stitt in Santa Clara County. After decades without leads, DNA technology and a tip linked Ramirez to the crime in 2022. Stitt's body was found hidden behind a cinderblock wall, having been sexually assaulted and stabbed 59 times. In court, Stitt's friends and family expressed their pain and the lasting impact of her murder. Ramirez, who entered the courtroom with a cane and glasses, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder after other charges were dropped.

Detective Matt Hutchison utilized new DNA tools to crack the case, highlighting the advancements in forensic science. District Attorney Jeff Rosen noted that Stitt was not forgotten and praised the efforts of law enforcement in securing justice. While the sentence brings some closure, family and friends acknowledged that true justice remains elusive as Stitt cannot be brought back.