This episode dives into the 1991 murder of Sarah Yarborough, a 16-year-old girl from Federal Way, Washington. The case remained a "cold case" for nearly three decades, until it was finally solved thanks to an incredible breakthrough in genetic genealogy. You'll find out how DNA samples found at the scene, which were unidentifiable at the time, became the key to uncovering the identity of the perpetrator, Patrick Nicholas. The video also highlights the gruesome details of the crime and how eyewitness testimony, including a 13-year-old who found Sarah's body, played a role in the serial killer's capture.
In this episode, you'll learn about how advances in DNA forensics can revive old, dead-end cases and the importance of investigators' perseverance. You will also understand the deep emotional impact on the victim's family and how this case sparked an important discussion about the use of family DNA searches in criminal investigations. This is a true story of justice delayed, but never extinguished.