From Valleynewslive · · 1m 20s
DNA names suspect in 1987 Navy veteran killing
A preserved crime scene and a new DNA test gave Arizona investigators their first clear answer in a 39-year-old murder.
In brief
A preserved crime scene and a new DNA test gave Arizona investigators their first clear answer in a 39-year-old murder. Old evidence can still solve cases when it is preserved well enough for newer DNA testing. Originally reported by Valleynewslive.
A cold case breaks
Arizona authorities say DNA evidence now links Gary Wayne Billups, 68, to the 1987 killing of Korean War Navy veteran Orison James "Jim" Chafin.
No courtroom ending
Billups died by suicide in June, days after giving investigators a DNA sample, so prosecutors will not file charges in Chafin's murder.
“Because the suspect is deceased, there will be no trial.”
A body in Glendale
Chafin, 54, was found at Resthaven Cemetery in Glendale on Aug. 8, 1987. His throat had been cut, and he was wearing only socks.
The bar lead
Chafin was last seen the night before at a bar near 59th and Glendale Avenues, drinking with friends and leaving with a man. Witnesses placed Billups there.
A reopened file
A tip last year led the attorney general's office and Glendale police to reopen the case, review old files, and reinterview surviving witnesses.
Evidence finally speaks
Investigators say Billups' DNA matched evidence from the scene, including beer bottles and cigarette butts. The match came back in August, after his death.
“for the first time in 39 years, we can be reasonably certain”
What matters most
Old evidence can still solve cases when it is preserved well enough for newer DNA testing.
