Breakthrough in the Cold Case
In 2020, the Monterey County Cold Case Task Force collaborated with the Seaside Police Department to reopen Pham’s case and submit evidence for DNA testing. Investigators analyzed a rootless pubic hair found on Pham’s remains and identified Lanoue as a potential match.
Astrea Forensics of Santa Cruz conducted whole-genome sequencing on the hair, creating a DNA profile that was used to search genetic genealogical databases. A forensic genetic genealogist with Parabon NanoLabs identified “Lanoue” as a possible last name for the suspect. Further investigation confirmed Robert John Lanoue as the likely perpetrator.
Connection to the Victim
At the time of Pham’s murder, Lanoue was 29 years old and stationed at Fort Ord, near where Pham’s body was found. He lived close to her family’s home, and one of his children attended the same school as Pham. However, investigators do not believe their families were acquainted.
