Cracking a Cold Case with Spit and a Prayer: How DNA Helped Nail the Boston Strangler (Mostly)
The Boston Strangler case: a string of murders that had the city on edge in the 60s. Back then, catching criminals relied on good old-fashioned detective work – stakeouts, hunches, and maybe a lucky break. Fast forward to the 21st century, and forensic science rides in on a white horse, well, a lab coat, to solve this decades-old whodunit. But how exactly did this microscopic evidence help crack the case? Let's grab a magnifying glass (or metaphorical one, because real ones smudge the evidence) and dive in!
The Not-So-Solid Suspect: Albert DeSalvo and the Confession Caper
Albert DeSalvo, a man with a colorful resume (including breaking and entering...not the best character trait for someone suspected of murder), emerged as a suspect. He confessed to the Strangler killings, but details were fuzzy and some inconsistencies made detectives raise an eyebrow (or two). The case went cold, leaving a nagging question: was DeSalvo the real deal, or a master braggart?
Enter DNA, Stage Left: The Science Steps In
This is where things get interesting. Thankfully, science marches on, and by 2013, DNA testing was a detective's best friend. Investigators dusted off evidence from the crime scenes, hoping to find a microscopic clue. Here's the twist: DNA technology back in the day wasn't quite up to snuff for catching criminals. So, they got creative.
They used a technique called Y-STR testing, which looks at DNA passed down from father to son. Not exactly a direct match, but a good place to start. They tested a nephew of DeSalvo's (because hey, family!) and compared it to evidence from one of the victims, Mary Sullivan.
And whaddya know? It was a match! Well, kind of. It was a strong connection, but not a slam dunk. To be sure, they exhumed DeSalvo (sorry, Albert, but science marches on) and ran a full DNA test. This time, it was a definitive BINGO! DeSalvo was linked to Sullivan's murder.
But here's the kicker: This DNA evidence only definitively linked DeSalvo to one of the thirteen Strangler murders. The case remains shrouded in some mystery, a testament to the ever-evolving world of forensic science.
So, DNA Didn't Solve EVERYTHING?
Nope, but it sure did help close a major chapter in this chilling story. It also showed the power of scientific advancements in bringing some semblance of justice to even the oldest of cold cases.
FAQ: Unsolved Mysteries and Spit Samples
How to collect your own DNA evidence (for totally legitimate reasons, of course):
Don't! Leave that to the professionals. Tampering with a crime scene is a big no-no.
How to become a DNA detective:
While you can't enroll in "CSI Academy," a degree in biology, chemistry, or forensics is a good starting point.
How to tell if you're related to a historical figure (through DNA):
There are genetic genealogy companies, but it's a complicated process and not always reliable.
How to avoid becoming a cold case:
Live a good life! But seriously, staying safe and being aware of your surroundings is always a good idea.
How to sleep soundly at night knowing there are unsolved mysteries:
Focus on the positive! DNA testing is constantly improving, and more cold cases are being solved every day.
