A Virginia Man Arrested in 1986 Cold Case Murder Linked to Another ’80s Killing
A suspect has been arrested in connection with a 1986 cold case murder of a Virginia woman, with DNA evidence also tying him to another killing from the ’80s, authorities revealed on Tuesday.
Elroy Harrison, 65, faces charges related to the 1986 murder of Jacqueline Lard, who was found under a discarded carpet in a wooded area in Woodbridge. He has also been linked through DNA to the 1989 murder of Amy Baker, another local woman discovered dead in a wooded area. However, Harrison has not been charged in Baker’s case.
Harrison was indicted on charges including first-degree murder, abduction, aggravated malicious wounding, and breaking and entering with the intent to commit murder in connection to the Lard case. He is currently held without bond.
Detective D.K. Wood’s collaboration with Parabon NanoLabs, using forensic genetic genealogy, led to the identification of the suspect. The DNA connection between the two murders was established, providing a breakthrough in both cases after decades.
This arrest marks a significant development in the longstanding cold cases, offering hope for closure to the families and friends of the victims. The thorough investigative work and advancements in DNA technology played a crucial role in bringing the suspect to justice.
Fairfax County authorities are now working to pursue charges against Harrison in the Baker murder, further aiming to seek justice for both victims and their loved ones.
