Home / Crime and Justice / DNA Breakthrough Solves 27-Year-Old Cold Case
DNA Breakthrough Solves 27-Year-Old Cold Case
9 Jun
Summary
- Victim Genelle Bradford identified 27 years after her remains were found.
- DNA technology was used to solve this long-running cold case.
- The case remains open, and police are seeking information.
The identity of a homicide victim, discovered in an abandoned Wilkinsburg home 27 years ago, has finally been revealed. Genelle Bradford, 18 at the time of her death, was identified using advanced DNA analysis as part of a cold case initiative. Her remains were found in June 1999, over a year after the home had been left vacant.
The Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner and Police Department partnered with Othram in 2024, utilizing a grant to analyze unidentified remains. This collaboration successfully developed a DNA profile and located potential relatives, leading to Bradford's positive identification. Authorities are now shifting their focus to finding justice for Genelle, emphasizing that this technology allows for the resolution of long-unanswered cases.
Despite the breakthrough in identification, no suspect has been named in Genelle Bradford's death. Police are actively seeking public assistance and urge anyone with information to contact the Allegheny County Police Tip Line. The investigation remains open as authorities pursue every lead to provide closure for Bradford's family.
