BEDFORD (1080 KRLD) - A 35-year-old cold case murder out of Bedford is finally solved.
Janet Love was 32 years old when she was sexually assaulted and murdered inside her apartment off Don Dodson Dr. back on April 24th, 1986.
"At the time of the murder, we collected DNA samples from the scene," says Bobby LaPenna, Bedford deputy police chief. "And those DNA samples were entered into CODIS - the Combined DNA Index System - to basically look out for any matching suspect DNA coming across."
Back then, using DNA technology to solve crimes was in its early stages.
Late last year, Bedford Police got their big break.
"We have been able to work with Texas DPS, who obtained a grant from the DOJ identifying DNA from sexual assault kit," says Deputy Chief LaPenna. "And with that, they were able to identify a suspect."
The suspect's name was Ray Anthony Chapa, who lived in a neighboring apartment complex less than 1000 feet away.
Investigators say there was no known connection between Chapa and Love.
However, investigators will never learn the motive behind the killing, and Chapa will never face charges for what he did - he passed away in January of this year of a terminal illness.
Still, Love's family is very appreciative that Janet's murder has finally been solved after all these years.
"To those who diligently kept Janet's life ad unsolved case before the public and encouraged new information, fresh eyes, and fervent examination of the evidence, we are so very appreciative," the family wrote in a statement. "Our family is greatly relieved to have our questions answered, and to have some sense of resolution and closure."
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