Cold Case Solved: Forensic Genealogy Leads to Identification of Esther González’s Killer
On February 9, 1979, 17-year-old Esther González walked to her sister’s house in Banning, California. She never arrived.
The next day, authorities found her body covered in snow by a road near Banning. Investigators reported that she had been attacked, raped, and beaten to death.
An unidentified man discovered Esther’s body and described himself as “contentious.” He later was named Lewis Randolph “Randy” Williamson. He called the sheriff’s office to report the body, saying he could not identify the victim’s gender. Investigators later asked Williamson to take a polygraph test.
Williamson agreed and passed the test, clearing him from suspicion at that time.
Nearly five decades later, a cold case homicide team confirmed that Williamson is the suspected killer of González using forensic genealogy.
Forensic genealogy is becoming popular across the country. Investigators analyze DNA coupled with traditional genealogical research to find leads in cold cases.
Jason Corey, the lead investigator from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, stated this technique is a valuable tool for law enforcement. He believes it will help identify victims and guide investigators toward suspects.
Even as the case cooled, Riverside detectives continued their search. The homicide team worked on González’s case for decades. They entered a sample of semen from the crime scene into the Combined DNA Index System but found no leads.
In 2023, detectives sent multiple samples to a genetic lab in Texas specializing in forensic genealogy. A criminal analyst reviewed the case and made significant progress.
What is forensic genealogy, and how is it used in criminal investigations?
Interview with Forensic Specialist Jason Corey: Unraveling the Esther González Case Through Forensic Genealogy
By [Your Name], News Editor – newsdirectory3.com
In the wake of groundbreaking developments in the Esther González cold case, we sat down with Jason Corey, the lead investigator from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office. His insights into forensic genealogy have shed new light on a tragedy that has haunted the community of Banning, California, for over four decades.
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Jason. The Esther González case has seen a resurgence in the public eye after nearly 50 years. Can you explain how forensic genealogy played a pivotal role in identifying the suspect, Lewis Randolph “Randy” Williamson?
Jason Corey: Thank you for having me. Forensic genealogy has indeed revolutionized cold case investigations. In the case of Esther González, we initially had very little evidence to go on. By analyzing DNA found at the crime scene and comparing it with a database of genealogical records, we were able to construct a family tree that led us directly to Randy Williamson. This method allowed us to connect the dots in a way traditional techniques simply could not.
News Directory 3: It’s intriguing how technology evolves to solve crimes. What are some of the specific forensic genealogy techniques used in this case?
Jason Corey: We began with DNA evidence collected at the crime scene, which had previously gone unprocessed. Our team used genetic testing to identify unique markers and then utilized public genealogy websites to trace family connections. By cross-referencing social media and public records, we could narrow down potential suspects. In Williamson’s case, the genealogy data highlighted a family connection that pointed us back to him as the main suspect.
News Directory 3: Forensic genealogy has gained popularity in recent years. What do you believe this means for future cold cases?
Jason Corey: The potential is immense. This approach not only helps to solve old cases like Esther’s but also has implications for missing persons and unidentified remains. As more people participate in genetic testing and databases grow, we can expect breakthroughs in cases that have remained unsolved for decades.
News Directory 3: In terms of community response, how has the discovery impacted those who knew Esther and the Banning area as a whole?
Jason Corey: The community has been incredibly supportive and engaged throughout this process. Esther’s family never truly got closure, and now that there’s a clearer path to justice, we’ve seen a renewed interest in her story. Local residents want to honor her memory and ensure that such a tragedy does not happen again.
News Directory 3: Williamson initially passed a polygraph test after discovering Esther’s body. How have modalities in questioning and investigation changed since then?
Jason Corey: Back in 1979, investigative techniques were not as advanced as they are today. Polygraph tests are often reliant on physiological responses that can be misleading. Now, with the incorporation of sophisticated DNA analysis and genealogy, we’ve shifted our focus to more definitive evidence. This not only enhances reliability but also builds a more solid case for prosecution.
News Directory 3: What do you foresee as the next steps in bringing this case to justice?
Jason Corey: Our next steps involve building a comprehensive case against Williamson, which includes gathering additional evidence, witness statements, and exploring the potential for prosecution. We aim for a thorough investigation that honors Esther’s memory and seeks justice for her family.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Jason, for sharing your insights. It’s heartening to see technology providing new hope in cold cases like Esther’s.
Jason Corey: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important work. We are committed to solving cases and bringing closure to families like Esther’s.
The Esther González case serves as a testament to the power of modern forensic methods and forensic genealogy. As investigators continue to explore this promising avenue, communities hold onto the hope for justice, no matter how long it takes.
Although Williamson passed the polygraph test in 1979, DNA technology had not advanced at that time, and he was never cleared based on DNA evidence.
A follow-up polygraph test was not possible because Williamson died in Florida in 2014. However, a blood sample was collected during his autopsy.
Florida officials sent the sample to the California Department of Justice. Scientists confirmed that Williamson’s DNA matched the semen sample from González’s body.
Corey mentioned that González’s case had been part of the unresolved cases unit for about five years, and various investigators had worked on it. This week, the case finally reached a conclusion.
Corey empathized with González’s family. He noted that they have endured a long period of grief. The recent resolution may not erase their pain but may offer them some closure.
Elizabeth, Esther’s older sister, expressed relief that the suspect had finally been identified, bringing peace to their family.
Esther and Elizabeth were very close, as they were only one year apart in age. The family remembers Esther as shy, funny, and friendly. She was the fourth of seven siblings.
Eddie, Esther’s older brother, wrote on Facebook: “The González family wants to thank the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department for a job well done after 40 years as they close this case.”