After 36 years, DNA identifies mystery man who terrorized a woman, NC police say
After 36 years, DNA testing has revealed the name and fate of an armed intruder who robbed and raped a woman in her home, according to police in North Carolina.
Read more Worst-rated nursing homes in the Charlotte area, federal ratings show
Turns out he was a soldier stationed at Fort Bragg, and he died before police could charge him, the Fayetteville Police Department said in a Sept. 10 news release.
“In July 1990, detectives responded to a home robbery and sexual assault at a residence in Fayetteville. The initial investigation determined that the male suspect broke into the victim’s home and pointed a firearm at her before raping and physically assaulting her,” police said.
“The suspect fled the scene before officers arrived. The victim was transported to a local hospital where she was treated for her injuries. … The case remained unsolved and was listed as a cold case.”
Funding from the National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Grant identified an unknown male DNA profile in 2018, but no DNA matches were found in the state’s DNA database, officials said.
Read more Popular NC-based taco shop to open another Charlotte restaurant. Here’s where
A breakthrough happened after the DNA profile was sent to Parabon NanoLabs for advanced genetic genealogy and phenotype testing, officials said.
“In August 2026, detectives were informed that the suspect’s DNA and a sample from the victim’s sexual assault kit matched,” police said.
“The male suspect in this case is deceased, but it was determined he was stationed at Fort Bragg and was in the area at the time of the assault. Because the suspect is deceased, no criminal charges will be filed in connection with this incident. In accordance with N.C.G.S. 132-1.4, the suspect’s identity is being withheld.”
Read more 9/11 TV specials & documentaries to mark the 25th anniversary: How to watch
Fayetteville is about a 65-mile drive southwest from downtown Raleigh.
