Suspect in 3 other killings now linked to teen girl's 1988 cold case murder: Police

Key Concepts

• Cold Case: A criminal investigation that has been inactive for a significant period.
• Forensic Evidence: Scientific evidence obtained from a crime scene, such as DNA.
• DNA Analysis: The process of examining an individual's DNA to identify them.
• Homicide: The crime of killing another human being.

Identification of Suspect in 1988 Cold Case

Announcement of Suspect Identification: On behalf of the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Chesapeake Field Office, and the Isle of Wight County Commonwealth Attorney, an announcement was made regarding the identification of a suspect in the 1988 cold case of Laurianne Powell in Gloucester County.

Suspect Identified: Allan Wade Wilmer, Senior, has been identified as the person responsible for Laurianne Powell's homicide.

Basis for Identification: The identification was made possible through advanced forensic evidence that was analyzed and certified by DNA Labs International, located in Deerfield, Florida.

Legal Ramifications: The Isle of Wight Commonwealth Attorney confirmed that based on the forensic findings, Allan Wilmer, Senior, would have been charged with Powell's homicide if he were alive today.

Victim and Suspect Details:

• Victim: Laurianne Powell, an 18-year-old female.
• Suspect: Allan Wade Wilmer, Senior.
• Suspect's Demise: Wilmer Senior died in December 2017 at the age of 63 at his residence in Lancaster County, Virginia.

Case Timeline and Details

Victim's Last Sighting: Laurianne Powell was last seen alive on March 8th, 1988, walking along Route 614s Route 17 in Gloucester County, Virginia.

Discovery of Victim's Body: Tragically, her body was discovered on April 2nd, 1988, in the Elizabeth River near Craney Island.

Cause of Death: Powell had been stabbed multiple times.

Condolences and Cooperation

Expression of Condolences: Sincere condolences were extended to the victim's family, Mr. and Mrs. Compton, and the Kchner family, acknowledging the loss and pain they have experienced over the past 37 years.

Acknowledgement of Cooperation: Gratitude was expressed for the family's cooperation and understanding as the involved agencies worked towards solving the case.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The 1988 cold case homicide of Laurianne Powell in Gloucester County has been solved through the application of advanced forensic evidence, specifically DNA analysis conducted by DNA Labs International. Allan Wade Wilmer, Senior, has been identified as the perpetrator. Although Wilmer Senior is deceased, the findings confirm he would have faced charges for the crime. The resolution of this case, after 37 years, brings a measure of closure to the victim's family, who are acknowledged for their patience and cooperation throughout the investigation.