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Fugitive Hunt: 40 Years Later, Suspect Images Released
31 Jul
Summary
- Suspect sought for 1983 murder of CU student and Navy ROTC cadet.
- FBI and police released new age-progression images of suspect.
- Suspect may have lived in Mexico for years, authorities say.
An extensive manhunt continues for Thayne Alan Smika, a fugitive accused of fatally shooting his former roommate, 22-year-old University of Colorado student Sidney Lee Wells, on August 1, 1983. Wells, a journalism major and Navy ROTC cadet, was discovered deceased in his Boulder apartment.
Smika, then 24, was identified as a suspect but was not immediately charged. His vehicle was found abandoned in Beverly Hills, California, in October 1986, featuring a stolen license plate, marking the beginning of his decades on the run.
In December 2010, a state warrant was issued for Smika's arrest, followed by federal charges for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to his apprehension.
Authorities report that Smika would be 67 years old today and may have a beard or wear glasses. He might have resided in Yelapa, Mexico, prior to 2007 and does not possess a valid U.S. passport. Both the FBI and Boulder Police are urging the public to come forward with any information.
