The Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office has identified Karen Percifield's killer nearly 50 years after her murder through advancements in genetic genealogy. Found dead in 1976, Percifield was last seen at a bar before disappearing. Richard Sommerhalder, already a suspect in her case and convicted of two additional murders, has been conclusively linked to her murder through DNA evidence. This case underscores how modern forensic advancements can provide closure for long-unsolved cases, reflecting a commitment to seeking justice for victims and their families.
After remaining unsolved for nearly 50 years, advances in DNA technology led to the identification of Karen Percifield's killer through genetic genealogy.
This case is a powerful example of how DNA advancements can deliver justice and closure to victims and their families.
On May 28, 1976, Percifield was found dead in Aptos, stabbed twice, and her killer, Richard Sommerhalder, was identified years later through familial DNA.
Richard Sommerhalder had previously been a person of interest in her case and was already convicted for two other murders at the time.
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