# California Cold Cases Solved After DNA Helped 'Badass Detective' To Identify Teens' Killers

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/forensic-files-unsealed-6989771/california-cold-cases-solved-after-dna-helped-badass-detective-to-identify-teens-killers
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/forensic-files-unsealed-6989771/california-cold-cases-solved-after-dna-helped-badass-detective-to-identify-teens-killers.md
Podcast: [Forensic Files Unsealed](https://stenobird.com/podcast/forensic-files-unsealed-6989771)
Published: 2026-09-10T02:05:52+00:00
Episode link: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/california-cold-cases-solved-after-dna-helped-badass-detective-to-identify-teens-killers--75037267
Audio file: https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/75037267/trash_can_dna_caught_a_1982_killer.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/forensic-files-unsealed-6989771/episodes/california-cold-cases-solved-after-dna-helped-badass-detective-to-identify-teens-killers
Duration seconds: 1941

## Resource

This episode details how Detective Matt Hutchison successfully resolved decades-old California cold cases by utilizing modern DNA technology and genetic genealogy. It specifically focuses on the 1982 murder of Karen Stitt and the 1979 killing of Estella Mena, both of which saw significant breakthroughs decades after the crimes occurred. By analyzing biological evidence preserved by original investigators, authorities identified Gary Ramirez as Stitt’s killer and linked the deceased Samuel Silva to Mena’s death. The narrative highlights the emotional impact these investigations have on law enforcement and credits the meticulous preservation of evidence by past officers. This story is featured in a "20/20" episode titled "Badass Detective," which explores Hutchison's persistence in seeking justice for the victims' families. The source emphasizes that these resolutions were made possible through a combination of scientific advancement and collaborative police work. This episode includes AI-generated content.

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## Transcript

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