Identification of Killer in 40-Year-Old Utah Murder Case
A man who murdered an 18-year-old woman in Utah four decades ago has finally been identified through advances in DNA and genealogical testing. The suspect, Ricky Lee Stallworth, died of natural causes in 2023. The case went cold until 2023 when DNA testing connected Stallworth to the murder. Stallworth was a 27-year-old airman stationed at Hill Air Force Base at the time of the murder. Motive remains unclear, and the victim, Christine Gallegos, was beaten, stabbed, sexually assaulted, and shot to death.
Key Points
- Christine Gallegos was found dead in 1985, and the case went cold until 2023
- Ricky Lee Stallworth, the identified killer, died of natural causes in 2023
- DNA testing connected Stallworth to the murder
Pros
- Closure for the victim's family after four decades
- Advances in DNA and genealogical testing led to the identification of the killer
Cons
- Motive for the murder remains unclear