Over the years, Seattle, Washington has had its share of mysteries that have never been solved. Around 200 people have been reported missing or murdered in Seattle since 1980, with many of the cases still unsolved. This data comes from the National Missing and Unidentified People System (NamUs). The families of the victims will never get the answers they need or the justice they deserve as long as these cases remain unsolved.
Investigators often struggle due to a lack of physical evidence or eyewitnesses in cold cases. It becomes more challenging to collect the required information to solve a case as time passes since memories fade and evidence deteriorates. Sometimes, modern tools can be used to sift through archival materials in search of fresh leads. Nevertheless, these items are scarce and generally costly.
Investigators may also have trouble locating suspects in cold cases since they may have moved away or passed away since the crime was committed. It is not uncommon for there to be multiple suspects in a case, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation.
Law enforcement in Seattle and around Washington state is committed to solving these cases and bringing justice to the victims and their loved ones, despite the obstacles they face. Cold case investigators or units are specialized sections within some police departments. In their efforts to solve these cases, these detectives work relentlessly to reexamine old evidence, reinterview witnesses, and pursue fresh leads.
The loved ones of the victims play an important part in the search for justice, alongside the efforts of law enforcement. They may hire private detectives, look into the cases themselves, or try to get the word out in order to get more information. Families may even offer rewards for information that helps solve the crime.
The Missing and Unidentified People Unit of the Washington State Patrol is one such organization. Around the state, this team looks into cases of missing people, unidentified bodies, and unsolved murders. They collaborate closely with victims' families, law enforcement, and other groups to find fresh leads and collect relevant data.