DNA testing identifies woman found in burned-out home, linked to Detroit serial killer

It’s a breakthrough in criminal investigations that has been developing for almost 20 years. The remains of a woman discovered in an abandoned Detroit home were recognized as Marilyn Washington by advanced DNA.

DETROIT (AP):Authorities announced Tuesday that the remains of a woman discovered in an abandoned Detroit home almost 20 years later had been identified as the probable victim of a serial killer who was held accountable for at least seven murders.

According to authorities, the lady, who has only been known as Jane Doe since 2006, has been identified as Darylnn Washington through sophisticated DNA testing.

In 2022, Detroit police looked to a Texas business, Othram Inc., to help them unravel the mystery.

According to Othram, it employed forensic evidence to create a DNA profile, carry out genealogical research, and give police new leads for investigations. It frequently collaborates with American law enforcement.

“Technology is amazing,” Detroit police spokesperson Jackson Vidaurri said.

The family of Washington was informed. No other information regarding the high-tech endeavor was disclosed right away.

Shelly Brooks was accused in 2006 of the murders of seven women he had bought sex with. Years before, some victims had been located. According to records, he was tried in two murder cases, found guilty, and given a life sentence.

According to Maria Miller of the Wayne County prosecutor’s office, once Brooks was guaranteed a life sentence, the other charges were dropped from the court system.

In 2008, the Michigan Court of Appeals stated in a summary that “all their bodies were found in remote locations in Detroit: an abandoned apartment building, a vacant garage, an alley, a vacant field, and a vacant house.”

Although Brooks denied killing anyone when he testified in his own defense, DNA evidence and his detailed, incriminating comments to police were used against him during the trial. He was not believed by the jurors.

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