# 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.
- Title: DNA names suspect in 1987 Navy veteran killing | Shortify
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: crime, dna, cold case, arizona, veterans, news, local, names, suspect, 1987, Navy, veteran
- Source: Valleynewslive — https://valleynewslive.com/2026/09/15/dna-evidence-links-man-navy-veterans-murder-nearly-40-years-later-authorities-say
- Published: 2026-09-15T22:34:06.296+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: crime, dna, cold case, arizona, veterans, news, local
## 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
## Key takeaway

Old evidence can still solve cases when it is preserved well enough for newer DNA testing.