Cold Case Murder Solved with DNA
- Arlington police and FBI solved a brutal 1985 Valentine's Day murder case using genetic genealogy.
- The case had remained unsolved for decades with no suspects or leads, until DNA evidence provided a breakthrough.
- Through advanced technology, the culprit was identified and justice was finally served.
ARLINGTON – In a significant development, the Arlington Police Department, in collaboration with the FBI Dallas Field Office, has made a breakthrough in the cold case of Terri McAdams, who was brutally murdered on Valentine's Day in 1985. For decades, the case remained unsolved, with no suspects or leads emerging. However, advancements in technology, particularly investigative genetic genealogy, have played a crucial role in identifying Bernard Sharp as the perpetrator. Sharp, who took his own life in a murder-suicide incident just months after McAdams' death, will not face any charges, as he is deceased. Law enforcement officials expressed hope that this revelation will bring some measure of closure to McAdams' family, who have long sought answers regarding her tragic death. At a recent news conference, McAdams' younger sister reflected on her sibling's vibrant life, stating, "Terri was an amazing girl, beautiful and full of life. She was a friend to everyone." Her heartfelt remarks underscored the emotional weight of the announcement and the enduring impact of McAdams' loss on her loved ones. The use of modern forensic techniques has not only shed light on a decades-old mystery but also highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to resolve cold cases. As families continue to seek justice and closure, this case serves as a reminder of the potential for new technologies to provide answers in long-standing investigations.