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 Virginia authorities arrested Elroy Harrison, 65. He is accused of killing two women in the 1980’s. Using the cutting-edge technique of genetic genealogy, Harrison has been identified as having links to both murders.

Jacqueline Lard and Amy Baker were murdered in the 1980s. Their families have long awaited justice. 

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The Victims

Jacqueline Lard, 32 at the time of her death in 1986, was last seen alive by staff was leaving the real estate office where she worked. 

The following day, the crime scene was discovered at her office, indicating a violent struggle. Despite exhaustive searches and collections of evidence, the case remained unsolved for years.

Amy Baker was 18 years old when she was slain in 1989.

She was last seen alive in Fairfax County.  Baker had been visiting family in Falls Church before heading back home. 

Her abandoned vehicle, discovered by a Virginia State Police trooper was towed. But it wasn't until her family reported her missing that her body was found in a wooded area next to an exit ramp. Detectives pieced together the events leading to her death. She had run out of gas and was walking to a gas station. Her killer intercepted her and strangled her to death.

Links to Both Murders

Nearly 40 years after the murders, authorities in Virginia employed new DNA technologies. And two cold cases may finally be solved through DNA.

This groundbreaking approach in forensic investigation enables the comparison of DNA samples. It is compared against public genealogy databases, leading to the narrowing down of suspects to specific geographic areas, families, or individuals.

With the aid of genetic genealogy, the Fairfax County Police Department collaborated with the Fairfax County Office of the Commonwealth Attorney to pursue charges against Elroy Harrison in connection with Amy Baker's murder.

 Harrison's arrest marks a significant milestone in the quest for justice for both Jacqueline Lard and Amy Baker, bringing hope to their families after years of uncertainty and anguish.

 It was only through the application of genetic genealogy that authorities were able to establish a familial connection to the suspect, leading to the indictment of Elroy Harrison on a charge of first-degree murder in Lard's killing.

Elroy Harrison is in custody at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

Through the convergence of technology and tenacity, two long-standing mysteries may finally find resolution, offering some small comfort to those impacted by these tragic events.