Cold case in boys death solved

Tacoma, WALocal News

Jeffrey Klungness, who went missing in 1996, has had his cold case resolved following the identification of his remains through forensic examination. The Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed that a skull fragment and fibula found in earlier years belonged to him, with the cause of death ruled as homicide due to blunt force trauma. Martin Malcolm, the prime suspect, was expected to face charges but died in 2022, which has led authorities to classify the case as closed. Notably, Malcolm had a troubled past, having been convicted of murder in 1980, further complicating the narrative surrounding his involvement with the Klungness family. He had been a handyman for the family and was known to have spent significant time with Jeffrey.

This case's resolution brings a bittersweet closure to the Klungness family, who have endured nearly three decades of unanswered questions. The investigation's finalization still includes some ongoing elements, but the primary facts have been established. Overall, the case highlights the complexities of long-unsolved crimes and the lingering impact on affected families.

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