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

KVIA•Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11:00 AM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

Cindy Wanner's murder, which occurred in 1991, remained unsolved for over 30 years until recent advancements in DNA technology led to the identification of James Lawhead Jr. as the prime suspect. Lawhead, 64, had been living under an alias in Bullhead City, Arizona, evading law enforcement since 2005. He was arrested on April 24, 2023, and is charged with murder and kidnapping. Investigators also arrested his sister, who allegedly lied about her contact with him. Authorities are now retracing Lawhead's movements to determine if he is linked to other crimes, urging law enforcement agencies to review cold cases that may relate to his history.

Key Details: • James Lawhead Jr. was arrested on April 24, 2023, in Bullhead City, Arizona. • Lawhead is charged with murder and kidnapping in connection with Cindy Wanner's case. • His sister, Terry Lawhead Steele, 71, was arrested for being an accessory. • Authorities are investigating Lawhead's potential connections to other crimes across the West Coast. • Law enforcement encourages agencies to review cold cases for possible links to Lawhead.

arrest justice murder cold-case dna-evidence

People & Organizations

CaliforniaArizonaPlacer CountyWayne WooCindy WannerJames Lawhead Jr.Terry Lawhead SteeleMorgan GireBullhead CityGranite BayPlacer County Sheriff’s OfficeScottsdale Police Department

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