Episode Details

In 1986, the city of Tacoma, Washington, was shaken by the brutal kidnappings and murders of two young girls, Michella Welch and Jennifer Bastian, occurring just months apart. Although the similar circumstances led investigators to initially suspect a serial killer, the cases eventually went cold for over three decades. Modern advancements in forensic genetic genealogy and DNA testing finally revealed that the crimes were actually committed by two unrelated men. Gary Hartman was identified as Welch’s killer through genealogical research, while Robert Washburn was linked to Bastian's murder after providing a voluntary DNA sample. Both men were ultimately convicted, bringing a sense of justice and closure to the grieving families and the community. This breakthrough also inspired the passage of Michella and Jennifer’s Law, which utilizes technology to help solve similar homicides.

This episode includes AI-generated content.