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Decades-Old Murder Case Solved with Arrest of Suspect in Arizona

KVIA•Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 4:59 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

The long-unsolved murder of Cindy Wanner, who disappeared in 1991, has taken a significant turn with the arrest of James Lawhead Jr., a 64-year-old suspect identified through new DNA technology. Wanner's body was discovered weeks after her disappearance, leaving her family and authorities searching for answers for over 30 years. Lawhead, who had been living under an alias in Arizona, was apprehended on April 24, 2023, and faces charges of murder and kidnapping. His sister, Terry Lawhead Steele, has also been arrested for complicity. This case highlights the enduring pursuit of justice, as investigators continue to explore Lawhead's past and potential connections to other crimes.

Key Details: • Cindy Wanner disappeared in 1991; her body was found three weeks later. • James Lawhead Jr. was arrested on April 24, 2023, under the alias Vincent Reynolds. • Lawhead faces charges of murder and kidnapping; his sister was arrested for complicity. • Investigators are looking into Lawhead's movements over the past 20 years. • Law enforcement encourages agencies to review similar unsolved cases.

arrest law-enforcement justice murder cold-case

People & Organizations

CaliforniaArizonaPlacer CountyWayne WooCindy WannerJames Lawhead Jr.Terry Lawhead SteeleMorgan GireBullhead CityGranite BayPlacer County Sheriff's OfficeDepartment of Transportation of Arizona

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