An 82-year-old man faces charges in connection with a brutal cold case involving the death of a Virginia secretary more than four decades ago.

According to ABC News, Rodger Zodas Brown was arrested at his North Carolina home for the 1979 rape and murder of 31-year-old Kathryn Donohue, whose body was discovered in a Glenarden, Maryland, parking lot.

Prince George's County Police Department investigators, aided by modern DNA technology and genetic genealogy techniques, identified Brown as the primary suspect. The breakthrough came after decades of the case remaining unsolved, providing Donohue's family with long-awaited answers about her tragic death.

DNA Evidence Leads to Breakthrough After 45 Years

Investigators found crucial DNA evidence on Donohue's body at the crime scene. The case remained cold until 2024 when authorities employed genetic genealogy to analyze the DNA sample. This investigative method allowed them to identify a relative of the suspect through database comparisons with voluntary DNA submissions.

The scientific advancement proved instrumental in narrowing down potential suspects. Through additional investigation, law enforcement officials eventually focused their attention on Brown, who resided in Prince George's County when the murder occurred.

Police noted that Brown and Donohue had no apparent connection, adding another layer of complexity to the decades-old case. The random nature of the crime highlights the challenges investigators faced in solving this cold case.

Arrest Brings Long-awaited Closure to Victim's Family

The Donohue family expressed their gratitude to investigators in a statement released by the police department: "This case serves as a reminder that we will never give up seeking the truth no matter how much time has passed."

Law enforcement officials described Brown's demeanor during his arrest as "solemn" and "cold," noting that he showed no reaction when taken into custody. The suspect's apparent detachment contrasts sharply with the emotional impact his alleged actions had on the victim's family and community.

The arrest represents a significant milestone in the investigation, demonstrating the persistence of law enforcement in pursuing justice. Prince George's County authorities continue to investigate the case, seeking additional information that might shed light on the circumstances surrounding Donohue's death.

Modern Technology Transforms Cold Case Investigation

The successful resolution of this case underscores the transformative impact of genetic genealogy in solving cold cases. This technological advancement has revolutionized how law enforcement approaches decades-old investigations, providing new hope for families seeking answers.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Bill DelBagno emphasized the brutality of the crime during Tuesday's news conference. The violent nature of the attack, combined with the lack of apparent motive, had complicated the investigation for years.

The case highlights the evolving capabilities of forensic science and its application in criminal investigations. Advanced DNA analysis techniques have become increasingly crucial in resolving cold cases that previously seemed unsolvable.

Legal Proceedings and Next Steps

Brown currently faces multiple serious charges, including first-degree murder and rape. He remains in custody in North Carolina, awaiting extradition to Maryland to face these charges.

The legal process will likely involve complex proceedings due to the age of the case and the defendant. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether Brown has retained legal representation to address the charges.

Prince George's County Police continue their active investigation, maintaining a dedicated phone line for additional information related to the case.

Case Resolution Brings New Chapter

The arrest of Rodger Zodas Brown marks a significant breakthrough in the 1979 murder case of Kathryn Donohue, a 31-year-old Arlington resident whose life was tragically cut short in Glenarden, Maryland. Through the application of genetic genealogy and persistent investigation, authorities identified and apprehended the suspect after 45 years.

Brown now faces serious charges, including first-degree murder and rape, with legal proceedings set to begin following his extradition from North Carolina to Maryland. The case demonstrates the enduring commitment of law enforcement to solve cold cases and bring closure to victims' families, regardless of the time passed.

Why this story matters

The resolution of Kathryn Donohue’s case demonstrates the power of perseverance and innovation in law enforcement. It highlights the important role of genetic genealogy in modern investigations and underscores our collective responsibility towards seeking justice, irrespective of the time that has passed.

In conclusion, the arrest of Rodger Zodas Brown not only signifies a major advancement in forensic technology but also offers a solemn reminder of the carpENTER: What the resolution of an overtyped cold case mean for the victims’ families and society. This story emphasizes the never-ending quest for justice and the significant impact that resolving such cases can have on healing community wounds.