A California cold case from 1984 has finally been solved with DNA, officials announced, bringing long-awaited justice to the victims and their families. 

In the Shasta County Sheriff's press conference, authorities confirmed the arrest of Roger Neil Schmidt Sr., 64, in connection with the murder of Terry Arndt and the sexual assault of an 18-year-old woman near Burney High School.

“This is a monumental accomplishment,” Sheriff Michael L. Johnson said during a press conference. “But it’s also a bit bittersweet.”

🔗 Read the full case summary at dnasolves.com
🔗 Sheriff’s press conference on Facebook

DNA Technology Cracks the Case

In 2025, Shasta County authorities submitted forensic evidence to Othram, a Texas-based company specializing in forensic genetic genealogy, hoping that advanced testing could identify the long-elusive suspect.

Using Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing®, scientists at Othram developed a full DNA profile. Funding for the analysis came from Project 525, a non-profit that supports cold case investigations.

That DNA profile ultimately led to the identification of Schmidt, who was living in Tucson, Arizona.

“Without the help of Othram and Project 525, we may never have had this resolution,” said a sheriff’s office spokesperson.

The 1984 Crime

On December 14, 1984, two 18-year-olds were sitting in a car near Burney High School when Schmidt, then 23, approached with a gun.

He fatally shot Terry Arndt as the teen tried to shield his companion, who was then sexually assaulted. The attacker fled, and the young woman drove the wounded Arndt to seek help.

Despite a thorough investigation, no suspect was identified at the time.

“That attack rocked the community for several years,” said Sheriff Johnson. “It left a lasting trauma that still exists today.”

Arrest and Extradition

Schmidt was arrested in Arizona and charged with murder and sexual assault. Officials are now working to extradite him to California. As of July 25, he does not yet have an attorney listed in public records.

The attack took place in the small town of Burney, which is about 215 miles north of Sacramento.