It’s been nearly three decades since the brutal murder of JonBenet Ramsey shook her family in Colorado, but investigators are hinting that fresh DNA tools could make a real difference in solving this chilling cold case. In a recent video message, Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn stressed that this investigation is still on their radar, emphasizing how new developments in DNA technology could open new doors, according to Fox News. For a long time, the police department was careful with the little biological evidence they had, but now Redfearn’s leadership is giving hope that items, including the controversial garrote from the 6-year-old’s death, might be re-examined.
John Ramsey, JonBenet’s father, has been advocating for authorities to team up with a genetic lab that specializes in investigative genealogy — a method that’s been pivotal in solving plenty of cold cases. He labeled this approach as the “gold standard,” saying that experts have indicated it’ll only require a small DNA sample to potentially identify a suspect. In an interview with the Daily Mail, he expressed his belief that there’s a solid chance a suspect could emerge in a matter of months with this technique. He just wants assurance that police are leaving no stone unturned with contemporary options.
While previously openly critical of the Boulder police, John Ramsey feels more hopeful now under the new guidance and has met with Chief Redfearn several times. They’re filtering through a vast array of suspects—once estimated at about 700, according to longtime detective Lou Smit. John Ramsey insists that DNA analysis is the most effective way to narrow down the possibilities. Little JonBenet was reported missing on December 26, 1996, and her lifeless body was later found in their home’s basement; fortunately, her family was cleared by the initial DNA tests.
Even though John Ramsey and his late wife Patsy were exonerated early on, they faced their share of silent accusations regarding their daughter’s tragic death. Reflecting on the events, John disclosed that he became a prime suspect in the eyes of law enforcement simply because he managed to stay level-headed in the unsettling hours following JonBenet’s disappearance instead of panicking, as detailed by OK! magazine. According to USA Today, Police Chief Redfearn confirmed that they have also gathered “new evidence” related to the case. Authorities have pursued over 21,000 leads during the investigation, interviewing more than 1,000 individuals, and they are urging anyone with any piece of information about the crime to reach out at 303-441-1974 or via email.
