Who is Roger Neil Schmidt and what did he do in 1984?

Roger Neil Schmidt pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and sexual assault that occurred in Burney, California, on December 14, 1984.

How was the 1984 Burney murder case solved after so many years?

The cold case was solved using new DNA methods and forensic genealogy, which helped authorities identify Roger Neil Schmidt as the suspect.

What happened to Terry Arndt during the 1984 attack?

Terry Arndt, 18, was fatally shot while shielding his female companion from gunfire during the attack by Roger Neil Schmidt.

Home / Crime and Justice / 41 Years Later: Cold Case Murderer Admits Guilt

41 Years Later: Cold Case Murderer Admits Guilt

3 Jan

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Summary

Roger Neil Schmidt confessed to murder and sexual assault after 41 years.
New DNA methods and forensic genealogy cracked the 1984 cold case.
Victim Terry Arndt died protecting his female companion during the attack.

41 Years Later: Cold Case Murderer Admits Guilt

In a stunning turn of events, Roger Neil Schmidt has confessed to a 1984 murder and sexual assault, 41 years after the crime. The conviction came after advancements in DNA technology and forensic genealogy provided the crucial links authorities needed to identify Schmidt as the perpetrator.

Schmidt's attack on December 14, 1984, in Burney, California, resulted in the tragic death of 18-year-old Terry Arndt. Arndt lost his life while shielding his 18-year-old female companion from gunfire before Schmidt sexually assaulted her. The victim's companion managed to escape and seek help, but Arndt succumbed to his injuries.

After decades of the case remaining cold, investigators traveled to Tucson, Arizona, to obtain DNA samples from Schmidt. The subsequent testing confirmed a match, leading to his confession and arrest. Arndt's parents were present when Schmidt pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison without parole.