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DNA Solves 1996 Montana Murder After Killer Dies
7 Dec
Summary
- DNA testing identified Paul Hutchinson as the killer in 1996 murder.
- Hutchinson died by suicide hours after being interviewed by investigators.
- The murder was deemed a crime of opportunity, with no prior connection.
Nearly three decades after 15-year-old Danni Houchins was found dead in Montana, advanced DNA testing and forensic genetic genealogy have identified her killer. Authorities named 55-year-old Paul Hutchinson as the perpetrator, who died by suicide just hours after being interviewed by investigators about the 1996 cold case. Houchins vanished from Belgrade, Montana, and her body was discovered later that night in the Gallatin River.
Efforts to solve the case were renewed in 2021, leading to the identification of Hutchinson. During his interview, Hutchinson exhibited extreme nervousness and discomfort. The following morning, he was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators determined Houchins and Hutchinson did not know each other, classifying the murder as a crime of opportunity.
Hutchinson, who had no criminal history, was a married father of two. Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer emphasized the relentless pursuit of justice, stating they never gave up on finding the truth for Danni and her family. Houchins' sister expressed that while the killer wouldn't face a jury, his choice to end his life reflected his guilt.
