1980 - 1989
Visitors to this site are urged to contact the our office with any information you may have about these cases.
702-828-3521
Homicide@LVMPD.com
Case #: 89-32667
Victim: Bobby Wayne Foster, 47
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Recovered in desert area near Willow Beach, Mohave County, Arizona
Date: September 2-8, 1989
Synopsis: In August 1989, Bobby Wayne Foster, a 47-year-old professional gambler, won approximately $50,000 in a poker tournament in California. Following the win, he traveled to Las Vegas to meet his nephew at the Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino.
On the evening of September 1, 1989, Foster and his nephew were seen at a bar inside Caesars Palace. The two had planned to reconnect later that evening. Multiple witnesses observed Foster leave the bar area with a White female with blonde hair.
During the afternoon of September 2, 1989, Foster was seen alone at a local bar called the Tender Trap.
On September 3, 1989, Foster’s nephew reported him missing to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
Foster’s white Corvette was located in the parking lot of the Stardust Hotel and Casino on September 8, 1989. LVMPD Crime Scene Analysts processed the vehicle before it was towed.
On September 16, 1989, a snake hunter discovered Foster’s body in a remote desert area of Mohave County, Arizona, near Willow Beach.
An autopsy performed by the Clark County Coroner determined Foster had been shot. His death was ruled a homicide.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 89-69928
Victim: Tracy Jackson, 25
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1000 Block of South Commerce Street
Date: May 21, 1989
Synopsis: On Sunday, May 21, 1989, at approximately 4:30 a.m., LVMPD patrol officers responded to the 1000 block of S. Commerce St. for a report of a suspicious situation. Officers arrived and met with the person reporting who directed them to the location of an unidentified adult female with multiple blunt trauma injuries and it appeared she was deceased. At approximately 7:45 a.m., the assigned Deputy Coroner Investigator pronounced the adult female deceased at the scene. LVMPD Homicide Section and other personnel initiated an investigation into the decedent’s death.
On Monday, May 22, 1989, the Clark County Office of the Coroner identified the adult female as being Tracy Jackson (also known as Tracy Freel and Tracy Kolias) via fingerprints. On the same date, after a complete autopsy, the Chief Medical Examiner opined the manner of her death was a homicide.
The LVMPD Homicide Section continued their investigation to a point in which there was no new information or leads to follow-up on and the death of Tracy Jackson is an unresolved murder and there are no known suspects.
Anyone with information is urged call the LVMPD Homicide Section at 702-828-3521.
Case #: 89-58634
Victim: William Darryl Robinson, 34
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Parking lot near F Street and Jackson Avenue, Las Vegas, NV
Date: March 31, 1989
Synopsis: On March 31, 1989, at approximately 3:30 a.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers responded to the area of F Street and Jackson Avenue following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located a deceased male seated inside a vehicle parked in a lot across the street from the New Town Tavern.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and interviewed witnesses. Detectives learned that two Black male adults had been seen speaking with the victim while he was seated in the driver's seat of a compact vehicle. Witnesses reported seeing the suspects standing near the vehicle when they heard a gunshot and observed a muzzle flash. The suspects were then seen fleeing the area on foot in a westerly direction.
One suspect was described as a Black male in his late teens to early 20s, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing about 160 pounds, with an afro hairstyle. He was reportedly wearing a red plaid long-sleeve shirt and a red baseball cap. The second suspect was described as a Black male in his late teens to early 20s, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing about 160 pounds, wearing a red sweatshirt and dark-colored pants.
During the investigation, detectives learned that the area was known for narcotics activity and believed the victim had been targeted during a robbery.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as William Darryl Robinson. The Coroner determined that Robinson died from a single gunshot wound to the neck.
READ: LVMPD Press Release March 31, 1989
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 89-56654
Victim: Terry Kern Hall, 39
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Chief Motel, Room 10, 1201 E. Fremont Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: March 22, 1989
Synopsis: On March 22, 1989, at approximately 12:34 a.m., the manager of the Chief Motel called 911 and requested LVMPD Patrol Officers respond regarding a male who appeared to have been murdered. Upon arrival, officers located the body of an adult male lying on the floor of Room 10.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and learned that the victim was Terry Kern Hall, the registered occupant of Room 10. Detectives learned that Hall's girlfriend had recently finished work and traveled by bus to visit him. When she arrived, she found the door to the room closed but unlocked. Upon entering, she discovered Hall lying on the floor and immediately contacted the motel manager for assistance.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that Hall died from a stab wound to the throat.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Hall had been seen at a nearby market at approximately 11:00 p.m. in the company of two Hispanic males and one Black male. A witness later observed Hall return to his motel room with the same individuals. Investigators determined that a struggle likely occurred inside the room before Hall was fatally stabbed.
READ: LVMPD Press Release March 22, 1989
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 89-55851
Victim: Pedro Alfonso Luis Becquer, 40
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Near the intersection of A Street and Wilson Avenue, Las Vegas, NV
Date: March 18-19, 1989
Synopsis: On March 18, 1989, at approximately 1:50 p.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers and medical personnel were dispatched to the intersection of A Street and Wilson Avenue regarding a man who had been shot. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male lying next to the curb. The victim was transported to University Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and canvassed the area for witnesses. During the investigation, detectives located the victim's vehicle parked on the street just north of Williams Avenue.
According to witnesses, the victim exited his vehicle and began speaking with another male who was walking in the area. Witnesses stated the victim appeared to hand the other male a brown bag. After a brief discussion, the victim turned and began walking back toward his vehicle. At that point, the suspect allegedly produced a silver handgun, approached the victim from behind, and fired a single shot. The suspect then fled the scene in the victim's vehicle, traveling northbound on C Street.
Witnesses described the suspect as a light-skinned Black male, possibly of Cuban descent, between 30 and 40 years old, approximately 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 11 inches tall, with a full beard and salt-and-pepper hair. The suspect was also reported to have a scar on his left cheek extending from below his left eye to the left corner of his mouth.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as Pedro Alfonso Luis Becquer. The Coroner determined that Becquer died from a gunshot wound to the head.
During the investigation, detectives received information indicating that Becquer was allegedly involved in narcotics sales and that his murder may have been related to those activities.
READ: LVMPD Press Release March 18, 1989
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article March 19-20, 1989
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 89-55286
Victim: Shirley Ann Stanton
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Near Laughlin, NV
Date: Discovered on March 16, 1989
Synopsis: On March 16, 1989, passengers aboard a bus traveling toward Laughlin observed what appeared to be a body alongside the roadway and notified authorities. Responding officers located the body of Shirley Ann Stanton and determined that she was the victim of a homicide. Investigators believe her body had remained undiscovered for several days prior to its discovery.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Stanton had been relocating from Bedford, Texas, to Porterville, California. While traveling, she had experienced mechanical problems with her vehicle and had been periodically updating her mother regarding her progress.
Authorities later located Stanton's vehicle near the Vicksburg Road overpass on Interstate 10 in the New Hope area of La Paz County, Arizona, approximately 100 miles east of Phoenix. Stanton's dog was found alive inside the vehicle.
Investigators learned that a white semi-tractor trailer had been observed stopped in the vicinity of Stanton's vehicle near the time of her disappearance. The area where the vehicle was located is remote and includes a truck stop frequently used by commercial drivers.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 89-47971
Victim: Paula Bowling, 21
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Paradise Road, south of Robindale
Date: Discovered on February 13, 1989
Synopsis: On February 13, 1989, at approximately 5:30 p.m., the body of Paula Bowling (AKA: Paula Howard or Chardon Jazzmen) was found in the desert area off Paradise Road, south of Robindale. The victim had arrests in Las Vegas for prostitution and drug related offenses and was known to frequent the area of Fremont and Eastern Avenues.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles February 14-16, 1989
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 89-45216
Victim: Anthony Edward Childs, 31
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1801 North J. Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between January 31 and February 1, 1989
Synopsis: On February 1, 1989, at approximately 7:50 a.m., two witnesses walking through the apartment complex parking lot at 1801 N. J Street observed a male sitting in the same position in which they had last seen him at approximately 4:00 a.m. that morning. The witnesses contacted LVMPD Patrol Officers, who responded to the scene.
Upon arrival, officers located a gray 1988 Honda parked near the apartment complex office. A deceased male was found seated in the passenger seat of the vehicle.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that the victim died from a single gunshot wound to the head. The victim was positively identified as Anthony Edward Childs.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned that Childs may have recently traveled to the Las Vegas area from Washington state. Detectives also attempted to determine who Childs had been with prior to his death and who had been driving the gray 1988 Honda.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 88-101971
Victim: Eugene Peterman, 56
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Central Park West Apartments, 241 Sands Avenue, Las Vegas, NV
Date: November 5, 1988
Synopsis: On November 5, 1988, at approximately 4:00 a.m., the Clark County Fire Department responded to a structure fire at the Central Park West Apartments located at 241 Sands Avenue. One occupant of the complex suffered severe burns over approximately 75 percent of his body and was transported to the University Medical Center Burn Center for treatment.
During the fire investigation, Clark County Fire Department Arson Investigators determined that the fire had been intentionally set. Investigators found evidence that an accelerant had been poured in two separate locations on the second floor of the apartment complex.
The apartment complex manager, who lived near the victim, exited his apartment after the fire alarms activated and discovered the victim lying in the hallway.
The victim was later positively identified by his son as Eugene Peterman. Peterman succumbed to his injuries and died on November 7, 1988, at University Medical Center.
Investigators were unable to determine why the accelerant had been poured in two locations on the second floor or who the intended target of the arson may have been. Five apartments were located on that floor of the building.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 88-94144
Victim: John Allan Holland, 28
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Lake Mead National Recreation Area – Lower Government Wash, Clark County, NV
Date: October 1, 1988
Synopsis: On October 1, 1988, two individuals driving through the campground area at Lower Government Wash within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area discovered the body of a deceased male lying alongside a dirt road. The witnesses immediately contacted National Park Service Rangers, who responded to the scene and requested assistance from LVMPD Homicide Detectives.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as John Allan Holland. The Coroner determined that Holland died from blunt force trauma to the head and chest.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned that Holland had been the victim of a robbery. Detectives also determined that Holland was last seen during the early morning hours of October 1, 1988, when he left his residence following a brief conversation with his roommate.
READ: LVMPD Press Release October 3, 1988
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 88-78148
Victim: Mable Louise Hulihan, 84
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 231 S. 26th Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between July 19-20, 1988
Synopsis: On July 20, 1988, a friend of Mable Hulihan entered her residence and discovered her deceased in the living room. The friend immediately contacted LVMPD Patrol Officers, who responded to the scene.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned that valuables were missing from the residence.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that Hulihan died as a result of strangulation.
Through interviews with friends and acquaintances, detectives learned that Hulihan often left her home unsecured to allow for ventilation. Investigators also learned that Hulihan had recently befriended an unhoused male who was reportedly a frequent visitor to her residence.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 88-71654
Victim: James G. Philumalee, 42
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Elbow Room Bar, 1590 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV
Date: June 17, 1988
Synopsis: On June 17, 1988, at approximately 6:30 a.m., a patron entered the Elbow Room bar and discovered an adult male lying on the floor with a gunshot wound to the head. LVMPD Patrol Officers responded to the scene, and the victim was transported to University Medical Center.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to both the hospital and the crime scene after medical personnel advised that the victim was in critical condition.
During their investigation, detectives determined that the victim had been shot near the cash register area of the bar and was found lying on the floor behind the bar. Investigators observed that the cash register drawers were partially open and believed the victim had likely been the target of a robbery.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as James G. Philumalee, the bartender on duty at the time of the incident. The Coroner determined that Philumalee died from a gunshot wound to the head.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 88-64545
Victim: Dee Sherman Rose, 29
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 5100 block of South Industrial Road, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between May 12, 1988, at approximately 9:30 p.m. and May 13, 1988, at approximately 5:30 a.m.
Synopsis: On May 13, 1988, at approximately 5:30 a.m., a passerby traveling on Industrial Road observed the body of an adult White male lying alongside the roadway. LVMPD Patrol Officers responded to the scene and determined the male was deceased.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives also responded to the scene and learned that the victim had recently traveled to the Las Vegas area and was staying at the EZ 8 Motel, located at 5201 Industrial Road. The victim was last seen by an acquaintance at approximately 9:30 p.m. on May 12, 1988.
During the investigation, detectives determined that Rose likely left his motel room and walked to the area of Tropicana Avenue and Industrial Road to visit one of the nearby restaurants or bars. Investigators believe that after leaving the area and walking back toward his motel, Rose was assaulted and stabbed multiple times along Industrial Road.
Detectives positively identified the victim as Dee Sherman Rose and learned he had traveled to Las Vegas from Arkansas.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that Rose died from multiple stab wounds to the head, neck, chest, and back. The Coroner also noted defensive wounds on Rose's hands.
READ: LVMPD Press Release May 13, 1988
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 88-61903
Victim: Victor Aguilar Ortiz, 27
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 100 block of West New York Avenue near Commerce Street, Las Vegas, NV Date: April 30, 1988
Synopsis: On April 30, 1988, LVMPD 911 call takers received a report of a subject lying in the street near the intersection of Commerce Street and West New York Avenue. LVMPD Patrol Officers responded to the area and observed a Hispanic male lying face down in the roadway. The male appeared to be deceased, and medical personnel responded to the scene.
Initially, investigators were uncertain whether the victim had been the victim of a hit-and-run collision or if other circumstances were involved.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as Victor Aguilar Ortiz. The Coroner determined that Aguilar Ortiz died from a gunshot wound to the head.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned from multiple witnesses that Aguilar Ortiz allegedly owed money related to a narcotics purchase. Witnesses reported that Aguilar Ortiz was standing on the sidewalk speaking with an unknown Hispanic male when a small vehicle pulled up to the curb. The passenger called Aguilar Ortiz to the vehicle's window, and a short time later a gunshot was heard. The vehicle then fled the area.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles April 3 - May 1, 1988
READ: LVMPD Press Release, April 30, 1988
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 88-43748
Victim: Barron Keith Jones
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1701 North J Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: February 1, 1988
Synopsis: On February 1, 1988, at approximately 6:38 a.m., LVMPD 911 call takers received a report that a male had been shot near Apartment S8 at 1701 N. J Street. While patrol officers were responding to the location, a second call was received reporting that another gunshot victim had arrived at Community Hospital in North Las Vegas. The second victim, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds, told medical personnel that he had been at 1701 N. J Street. Additional officers were dispatched to the hospital.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene at 1701 N. J Street and located a deceased adult male on the landing between Apartments S7 and S8.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as Barron Keith Jones. The Coroner determined that Jones died from multiple gunshot wounds.
During the investigation, detectives canvassed the area and interviewed numerous witnesses. Witnesses reported that an argument had occurred between Jones, the surviving victim, and several unknown suspects. The dispute was allegedly related to narcotics and a refund that was owed. According to witnesses, gunfire was exchanged, and both Jones and the surviving victim were struck multiple times while attempting to flee the area.
The surviving victim was unable to identify the shooter or shooters.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article February 2, 1988
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 87-10196
Victim: Alexander Thomas Harris, 7
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Whiskey Pete's Hotel and Casino, Stateline, NV
Date: November 27, 1987
Synopsis: On November 27, 1987, the family of Alexander Harris was traveling home to California after spending the Thanksgiving weekend in the Las Vegas area with family and friends. Due to heavy traffic, the family decided to stop at Whiskey Pete's Hotel and Casino in Stateline, Nevada, where 7-year-old Alexander went to play in the arcade while his parents remained nearby.
The casino was at maximum capacity that weekend, and a desert race event was also taking place in the area, drawing additional visitors.
According to Alexander's mother, she placed him in the arcade and selected a gaming machine from which she could observe the arcade entrance. After approximately 25 minutes, she went to check on Alexander and discovered he was missing. She immediately alerted casino staff and enlisted the assistance of patrons in an effort to locate him. When Alexander could not be found, a kidnapping and missing persons report was filed with LVMPD.
A large media campaign was initiated seeking the public's assistance in locating Alexander.
On December 30, 1987, a Whiskey Pete's employee discovered Alexander's body concealed beneath a mobile home located in a remote area of the property. LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and determined that Alexander's body had been dragged beneath the mobile home and deliberately hidden.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that Alexander died from strangulation.
READ: Various Articles 1987-1988
READ: Alexander Thomas Harris suspect flyer
READ: Alexander Thomas Harris suspect composite sketch flyer
READ: Alexander Thomas Harris suspect composite sketch
READ: Alexander Thomas Harris missing flyer
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 87-97609
Victim: Marina Andree Vidal, 28
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area approximately 0.2 miles west of Needles Highway (State Route 163) near Mile Marker 10.8, Laughlin, NV
Date: November 12, 1987
Synopsis: On November 12, 1987, at approximately 11:00 a.m., the body of a deceased White female was discovered in a desert area along a power line road west of Needles Highway (State Route 163) near Mile Marker 10.8. LVMPD Patrol Officers responded to the scene and observed drag marks on the ground, indicating the victim's body had been dragged to that location.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives and representatives from the Clark County Coroner's Office responded to the scene. The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as Marina Andree Vidal. The Coroner determined that Vidal died from blunt force trauma to the head, chest, and neck.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Vidal had been reported missing by her roommate on November 8, 1987. Vidal was employed by the Laughlin Medical Clinic and was last seen at approximately 3:00 a.m. on November 8, 1987, at the Losers Lounge inside the Riverside Hotel and Casino. Friends and employees reported seeing Vidal dancing with two unidentified males prior to her disappearance.
When Vidal failed to return home, her roommate reported her missing to the LVMPD Laughlin Substation.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 87-91524
Victim: Eugene Travis Sr., 62
Suspect: Unknown
Location: King 8 Motel & Truck Stop, Room 206, West Tropicana Avenue, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between October 9-10, 1987
Synopsis: On October 10, 1987, at approximately 8:45 a.m., housekeeping employees discovered the body of Eugene Travis Sr. in Room 206 of the King 8 Motel & Truck Stop.
LVMPD Patrol Officers responded to the scene and found the body of a deceased Black male lying on the bed.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that Travis died from a gunshot wound and blunt force trauma to the head.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned that Travis had checked into the King 8 Motel & Truck Stop on October 9, 1987, at approximately 8:30 p.m. He was later seen in the casino area during the early morning hours of October 10, 1987. Travis was employed as a driver for a cross-country moving company and was scheduled to return to his home state of Alabama the following day.
Detectives also discovered that Travis had been the victim of a robbery, as his wallet and other valuables were missing.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 87-75432
Victim: Katherine Hobbs, 16
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area off North Shore Road near Callville Bay, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, NV
Date: Between July 23, 1987, and August 1, 1987
Synopsis: On July 23, 1987, at approximately 11:00 p.m., 16-year-old Katherine Hobbs told her mother she was going to the Alpha Beta grocery store located at 1100 E. Desert Inn Road to purchase a book. She left her residence and never returned home. Her mother subsequently reported her missing to LVMPD.
LVMPD Detectives released information to the media seeking the public's assistance in locating Hobbs. As a result of those media releases, detectives learned that Hobbs was last seen at the Alpha Beta store between approximately 11:10 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. on July 23, 1987.
On August 1, 1987, a hiker discovered the remains of Katherine Hobbs in a ravine off North Shore Road near Mile Marker 13, in the vicinity of Callville Bay within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Her personal property was later located approximately 10 miles away near North Shore Road and Lake Mead Boulevard by National Park Service employees.
During the investigation, detectives developed information indicating that Hobbs may have been abducted after leaving the Alpha Beta store, murdered, and her body subsequently dumped near North Shore Road.
Investigators also received reports of a white 1973-1980 Chevrolet Blazer with an approximately 18-inch red stripe along each side that was observed driving erratically near the western end of a wash area off North Shore Road on July 24, 1987.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that Hobbs died as the result of blunt force trauma.
READ: LVMPD Press Release August 20, 1987
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles 1987
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 87-71795
Victim: Kimberly Ann Faith
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area north of East Lake Mead Boulevard and east of Lamont Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between July 4-5, 1987
Synopsis: On July 5, 1987, at approximately 8:47 a.m., the body of a nude White female was discovered in a desert area north of East Lake Mead Boulevard and east of Lamont Street by a person walking through the desert on the way to a nearby Albertsons grocery store. LVMPD Patrol Officers responded to the scene.
Due to the circumstances of the death, LVMPD Homicide Detectives were requested to respond. Identification located near the victim identified the deceased as Kimberly Ann Faith.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that Faith died by homicidal means.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Faith was last seen on July 3, 1987, at approximately 10:30 p.m., when a friend dropped her off at an apartment occupied by acquaintances. Another witness reported seeing Faith hitchhiking, although the exact timeframe could not be determined.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles August 5-8, 1987
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 87-66634
Victim: Frank Richard Ringler, 51
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 6300 Casada Way
Date: Discovered June 8, 1987
Synopsis: Ringler was discovered dead in the living room of a associates house while house sitting for the weekend. He had been stabbed to death. Ringler had recently returned to Las Vegas after living in Florida and Barstow, CA.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 87-48641
Victim: Samantha Angela Ainsworth, 18
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area near Hollywood Boulevard and the Las Vegas Water Treatment Date: Between December 4, 1985, and March 3, 1987
Synopsis: On December 3, 1985, at approximately 5:00 p.m., 18-year-old Samantha Ainsworth was last seen by her 16-year-old cousin in front of Sam's Town on Boulder Highway near Tropicana Avenue. According to her cousin, Ainsworth planned to hitchhike back to her residence in North Las Vegas. When she failed to arrive home, her family filed a missing persons report with the North Las Vegas Police Department.
On March 3, 1987, a witness riding a four-wheeler in a desert area near Hollywood Boulevard and the Las Vegas Water Treatment Plant, just south of Vegas Valley Drive, discovered what he believed to be human remains scattered throughout the area. LVMPD Patrol Officers responded and located the remains in a wash.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and determined that what initially appeared to be a sinkhole was actually a shallow grave. After excavating the grave, detectives recovered a complete human skeleton.
The Clark County Coroner's Office examined the skeletal remains and determined they belonged to a White female between the ages of 16 and 20. Based on the depth of the grave and the condition of the remains, the Coroner concluded that the victim had been buried for more than one year.
Using that information, detectives reviewed missing persons cases involving White females between the ages of 16 and 20. The Clark County Coroner's Office later positively identified the remains as Samantha Ainsworth through dental records.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles March 5-6, 1987
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article December 28, 1985
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 87-46281
Victim: Angelique Jeanette Hayes, 36
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area near Mile Marker 40, East Lake Mead Blvd., Las Vegas, NV
Date: Discovered February 18, 1987
Synopsis: Angelique Hayes' nude body was discovered by hikers walking in the desert area approximately 3/10th of a mile south of the roadway. It is believed that her body had been in the area for three to four days. An autopsy determined the cause of death to be asphyxiation by means of strangulation. Angelique was initially listed as a "Jane Doe"; she was later identified through fingerprint comparison. Angelique was last seen at the Par-A-Dice Inn Motel, 2217 East Fremont St. Las Vegas, NV.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-100180
Victim: Bevory Estal Slaten, 38
Suspect: Unknown
Location: State Route 160 (Blue Diamond Road) near Lovell Canyon Road, Clark County, NV
Date: Prior to December 26, 1986
Synopsis: On December 26, 1986, hikers discovered human remains in the area of State Route 160 (Blue Diamond Road) and Lovell Canyon Road. LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and observed the decomposed remains of an adult male. The victim was wearing a black-and-white pullover T-shirt, blue Levi's jeans, and gray cowboy boots.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as Bevory Estal Slaten. The Coroner determined that Slaten died from multiple gunshot wounds.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Slaten had been arrested in Sandpoint, Idaho, prior to his death. However, investigators were never able to determine how Slaten traveled to Nevada.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-99492
Victim: Joel Morris Rawlins, 39
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Union Pacific Railroad Garnet Siding area (Union Pacific Rail Mile Marker 355½), approximately one-half mile north of the Interstate 15 Alamo/Caliente exit, Clark County, NV
Date: December 18-21, 1986
Synopsis: On December 21, 1986, at approximately 4:45 p.m., the body of an adult male was discovered near the Union Pacific Railroad, approximately one-half mile north of the Alamo/Caliente Interstate 15 off-ramp. LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and observed the victim lying at the bottom of an approximately six-foot embankment adjacent to a dirt road that ran parallel to the railroad tracks.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as Joel Morris Rawlins. The Coroner determined that Rawlins had died from a gunshot wound.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Rawlins had left Billings, Montana, on December 12, 1986, and was hitchhiking to San Diego, California, to visit his ex-wife and children. Family members reported hearing from Rawlins on December 18, 1986, when he was allegedly in the Ocean Beach area of San Diego and planning to return to Billings for Christmas.
Investigators also learned that most of the personal property Rawlins had been carrying was missing at the time of his death.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-96349
Victim: Ronald Chung McDowell, 32
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1655 E. Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas, NV
Date: December 5, 1986
Synopsis: On December 5, 1986, at approximately 4:00 a.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers were responding to a disturbance in the 1600 block of East Sahara Avenue when they received another call reporting that a male had been shot. Upon arrival, witnesses told officers that the victim, identified as Ronald McDowell, had been driving a gold Chevrolet Monte Carlo. Witnesses observed McDowell pull his vehicle to the curb, exit the vehicle, and walk toward an unknown male. The two men were then seen walking back toward McDowell's vehicle when an argument ensued.
Witnesses described the suspect as an adult male of unknown race with dark hair, a slender build, and standing between 5 feet 9 inches and 6 feet tall. The suspect was reportedly wearing a black windbreaker-style jacket and white pants.
Witnesses stated they observed the suspect shoot McDowell once, causing him to fall to the ground. The suspect then went through McDowell's pockets before standing up and shooting him a second time. The suspect was last seen within the apartment complex located at 1655 E. Sahara Avenue.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that McDowell died from a gunshot wound to the head.
During a canvass of the area, detectives learned the suspect may have been Hispanic or Asian. Investigators believe McDowell was the victim of a robbery that culminated in his murder.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles December 6, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-81738
Victim: Sandra Jo Gibbs, 31
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Vacant lot west of East Harris Avenue and Wardell Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: September 16, 1986
Synopsis: On September 16, 1986, at approximately 8:00 a.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers were dispatched to a vacant lot west of East Harris Avenue and Wardell Street after a witness discovered the body of a deceased nude female while cutting through the area.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded and conducted numerous interviews, canvassing the surrounding area and speaking with anyone who may have seen or heard suspicious activity. During the investigation, detectives learned that at approximately 10:30 p.m. on September 15, 1986, witnesses observed a vehicle leaving the desert area at a high rate of speed with its headlights turned off.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as Sandra Jo Gibbs. The Coroner determined that Gibbs died as a result of a severe beating and a cut throat.
Through witness statements, detectives learned the suspect vehicle may have been a cream or off-yellow Ford Pinto or Chevrolet Vega station wagon bearing Nevada license plates. Investigators believe Gibbs was killed at another location and her body was subsequently dumped in the vacant lot.
Detectives also received information that the suspect may be a White male adult in his late 30s, approximately 5 feet 7 inches to 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a medium build, reddish-blonde hair, and crooked teeth.
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article September 19, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-81346
Victim: Richard Muriel Griswold, 42
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 6234 Santa Cruz, Las Vegas, NV
Date: September 13-14, 1986
Synopsis: On September 14, 1986, at approximately 2:30 p.m., friends of Richard Griswold went to his residence to check on his welfare after learning that his business had burned down. Upon arrival, they discovered Griswold deceased inside the primary bedroom of his home and called 911.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and learned that Griswold owned Four Seasons Air Conditioning Company, located on Cinder Lane. The business had been destroyed by fire under suspicious circumstances during the early morning hours of September 14, 1986.
The Clark County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined that Griswold died from blunt force injuries to the head and face, as well as multiple stab wounds.
During the investigation, detectives learned of business dealings that may have provided a motive for both the arson and the homicide.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles September 15-16, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-80725
Victim: Phillip David Dunlop, 66
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 400 block S. Las Vegas Blvd., rear alley near 419 E. Fremont St. (adjacent to First Western Savings Bank), Las Vegas, NV
Date: September 10, 1986
Synopsis: On September 10, 1986, at approximately 7:00 p.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers and Las Vegas Fire Department paramedics responded to an alleyway behind 419 E. Fremont Street in reference to an injured person.
A witness contacted 911 and reported observing an adult male involved in a fight in the alleyway who had been stabbed.
Upon arrival, officers located the victim lying in an alcove at the rear of the First Western Savings Bank. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 66-year-old Phillip David Dunlop. The coroner determined Dunlop died from multiple stab wounds.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned witnesses observed Dunlop fighting with another adult male before being stabbed multiple times. The suspect was seen fleeing eastbound through the alleyway, across Las Vegas Boulevard, and toward Fremont Street. A store clerk later reported seeing a male matching the suspect’s description enter a nearby convenience store with blood on his hands.
Detectives determined Dunlop was likely the victim of a robbery, as his pockets were found turned inside out.
The suspect was described as a white male adult in his late 20s, with brown hair, approximately 6’2” tall and weighing 170 to 180 pounds. He was last seen wearing a red short-sleeve t-shirt, blue jeans, and black work boots, and carrying a knife in a black sheath on his right hip.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-80155
Victim: Matthew Dane, 20
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Deer Creek/Lee Canyon
Date: September 7, 1986
Synopsis: On September 8, 1986, at approximately 1400 hours LVMPD received a call regarding a dead body in the area of Deer Creek and Lee Canyon on Mount Charleston. Two hikers had made contact with Rangers at the Lee Canyon Ranger Station advising the had located the body of a white male adult, who appeared to be deceased.
The male, later identified as Matthew L Dane had been shot multiple times. Dane was also identified as being in the Air Force and was stationed at Nellis Air Force Base.
Dane was married at the time of his death. On September 7, 1986, his wife told Detectives she last saw her husband at the 7-Eleven located at Charleston and Nellis Blvd. after the two had returned from Mount Charleston. Dane had allegedly came out of the store around 4:00 p.m., told his wife his friend who was in the 7-Eleven and he were going out target shooting and removed his guns from the trunk of their car. Dane’s wife stated she did not know who the friend was or where the two were gong target shooting at.
On September 8, 1986 Dane’s wife said she woke up and realized Matthew Dane never returned home. She became very upset because she told detectives this behavior was uncommon for her husband. Therefore, she proceeded to Nellis Air Force Base, where she spoke with her husband’s command officer, who assisted her in contacting Metro Police.
A missing person report was filed early morning on September 8, 1986 by Dane’s wife.
READ: Review Journal Article September 9, 1986
READ: Review Journal Article September 16, 1986
READ: Review Journal Article September 10, 1986
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article September 10, 1986
READ: The Salem News Article January 13, 1987
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article January 17, 1987
READ: Review Journal Article November 23, 1988
Anyone with information is urged call the LVMPD Homicide Section at 702-828-3521.
Case #: 86-76505
Victim: Paul Vincent Leonardo, 29
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Alley South of 4425 Salton Ave., Las Vegas, NV
Date: August 18, 1986
Synopsis: Paul Leonardo, a Whittlesea Cab Driver, was found shot to death, in his cab, in the alley South of Salton Ave., by a man jogging in the area at approximately 6:30 in the morning. It was believed, at the time of discovery, that Paul was the victim of a robbery. The investigation revealed that Paul was dispatched to 4434 Salton Ave., Apt. 2B at 5:26 a.m. The meter in the cab was still recording at the time of discovery, based on the meter; it is believed that he arrived at approximately 5:39 a.m. The analysis completed by the Taxi Cab Authority personnel indicated that Paul either picked up a fare and drove approximately 6 miles and returned to the area or was robbed and killed at the location where he was found, though witnesses in the area didn't see the cab in the area between 5:45 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal August 18, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-68651
Victim: Roger Dale Sims, 39
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Fremont Hotel and Casino, 8th Floor hallway, Las Vegas, NV
Date: July 4, 1986
Synopsis: On July 4, 1986, at approximately 9:30 p.m., the body of an adult male was discovered by guests in the hallway near the front elevators on the 8th floor of the Fremont Hotel and Casino. The 8th floor was under construction and vacant at the time.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 38-year-old Roger Dale Sims. The coroner determined Sims died from blunt force trauma to the head.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned Sims was employed as a chef at the Viscount Hotel on Las Vegas Boulevard. He had been celebrating his birthday early and was last seen at approximately 7:00 p.m. at the Horseshoe Club Casino playing keno.
Sims was found with his pants pockets turned inside out, indicating he was likely the victim of a robbery. His wallet and jewelry were missing.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article July 9, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-49633
Victim: Gertrude McFadden, 89
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 218 W. Cleveland Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: Between March 19-20, 1986
Synopsis: On March 20, 1986, at approximately 10:22 a.m., Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol officers responded to 218 West Cleveland Avenue after the son of Gertrude McFadden requested a welfare check.
Upon arrival, officers discovered McFadden deceased inside the residence. Homicide detectives responded to the scene and observed the back door had been forcibly kicked in. Investigators also noted that specific areas of the home had been ransacked and money was missing.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined McFadden died as a result of both manual and ligature strangulation.
A neighborhood canvass revealed McFadden had spoken by telephone with a neighbor at approximately 8:00 p.m. on March 19, 1986. During the investigation, detectives learned a young male had approached McFadden’s residence on at least two prior occasions, requesting to use her phone. McFadden denied him entry both times.
A witness reported seeing a White adult male in the alleyway near McFadden’s residence on the evening of the incident. The male was described as approximately 5 feet 7 inches to 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a medium build, wearing a dark, fatigue-style jacket. The witness stated the male was walking briskly, but not running, from the area. Detectives believe this may have been the direction of the suspect’s flight from the residence.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles March 21, 1986
READ: las Vegas Review Journal Article March 29, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-49633
Victim: Thomas M. Jenkins, 69
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 201 N. 8th Street, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: Between March 17-18, 1986
Synopsis: On March 18, 1986, at approximately 6:00 a.m., Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department 911 call takers received a call from an unidentified male reporting a deceased person at 201 North 8th Street, near the entry to the basement.
LVMPD patrol officers responded and located the body of an adult White male lying on a stairway leading to the basement area. Homicide detectives responded to the scene and determined the victim had been dragged to that location from inside a bedroom within the residence.
The location, commonly referred to as the “Oslo house,” was an abandoned residence frequently used by transient individuals for shelter. Detectives located the primary crime scene inside a bedroom and determined the victim was likely asleep when he was attacked. Evidence indicated a struggle occurred inside the room, and investigators believe the victim may have been robbed.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner identified the victim as Thomas M. Jenkins. The coroner determined Jenkins died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head.
During the investigation, detectives learned the anonymous caller had contacted LVMPD from the El Cortez Hotel and Casino. Detectives canvassed the area and contacted individuals known to frequent the residence in an effort to determine who may have been present at the time of the incident.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Articles March 19-21, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-28416
Victim: Jacqueline Bridgett Rolfe, 26
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 3900 Block of Viking Circle, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: Between August 1-23, 1986
Synopsis: On August 14, 1986, the mother of Jacqueline Rolfe reported her daughter as a missing person to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Rolfe was last seen on August 1, 1986, when her mother had contact with her and informed her that she planned to sell her house.
After not hearing from Rolfe for several days, her mother attempted to locate her by contacting friends and acquaintances. When those efforts were unsuccessful and she had not heard from her daughter for an extended period of time, she filed a missing person report.
During the evening hours of August 23, 1986, the body of a deceased female was discovered in a desert area near the 3900 block of Viking Circle.
On August 24, 1986, the Clark County Coroner conducted an autopsy and positively identified the victim as Jacqueline Bridgett Rolfe. The coroner determined Rolfe died as a result of her throat being cut.
READ: LVMPD Press Release August 24, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-63296
Victim: Willie Gilmore, 56
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 718 W. Wilson Ave., Apartment #4, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: Between June 4-5, 1986
Synopsis: On June 4, 1986, at approximately 11:23 p.m., friends of Willie Gilmore entered his apartment at 718 W. Wilson Avenue, Apartment 4, and found him lying on the floor of the hallway leading to the bedroom.
The friends reported they had attempted to contact Gilmore earlier by knocking on the door and yelling through an open window. After discovering him unresponsive, they immediately contacted police.
LVMPD Patrol Officers and Homicide Detectives responded to the scene. Investigators learned Gilmore’s friends had been attempting to reach him throughout the day.
Gilmore was known to work at a tailor shop and typically got off work around 6:00 p.m. It was also reported he may have been involved in the sale of narcotics from the apartment.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Gilmore died from a gunshot wound.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles June 6-7, 1986
READ: LVMPD Media Release June 4, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-59436
Victim: Norman W. Cooper, 31
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1750 E. Karen Ave., #156, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between May 10, 1986 and May 13, 1986
Synopsis: On May 13, 1986, at approximately 1:00 p.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers were dispatched to 1750 E. Karen Avenue, Apartment 156, for a welfare check. Upon arrival, officers contacted an adult male who stated he was a co-worker and had come to check on Norman Cooper after not hearing from him for several days. Both men were members of the United States Air Force.
The co-worker reported finding the front door unlocked and Cooper unresponsive inside the residence. Officers observed several newspapers near the front door and detected an odor emanating from the apartment. Upon entry, officers located Cooper’s body wrapped in multiple blankets in the hallway between the living room and bedroom.
Medical personnel, the Clark County Coroner, and LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene. An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Cooper died from multiple blunt force injuries to the head and face.
During the investigation, it was learned Cooper’s vehicle and wallet had been taken. Cooper was last seen alive on May 10, 1986, between approximately 4:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. at a bar. His vehicle was later recovered in the area of Karen Avenue and Karen Court by LVMPD Patrol Officers.
Investigators developed a possible suspect described as a white male adult with a thin build, scraggly dark hair, and a tattoo on his arm.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles May 14-23, 1986
READ: las Vegas Review Journal Article April 15, 1987
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-50733
Victim: John Douglas Yates, 35
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Motel 6, 195 E. Tropicana Ave., Room 706, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between March 23, 1986 and March 24, 1986
Synopsis: On March 21, 1986, John Douglas Yates and a co-worker arrived in Las Vegas from the San Antonio, Texas area for a weekend gambling trip. The two checked into the Motel 6 located at 195 E. Tropicana Avenue, with Yates assigned to Room 706 and his co-worker assigned to a nearby room. Both were employees of General Electric.
On March 23, 1986, the two made plans to travel to Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino for dinner and gambling. At approximately 7:00 p.m., Yates’ co-worker returned to the Motel 6 with their vehicle and went to Yates’ room to return the keys. Upon arrival, he found the door partially ajar and observed Yates in the shower. He advised Yates he was leaving the keys in the room and to contact him when he was ready to leave.
When Yates did not make contact, the co-worker returned to the room and found the door closed. After receiving no response, he went to the Granada Casino to wait for Yates, who never arrived. The co-worker later returned to the motel at approximately 9:00 p.m. and again attempted to contact Yates by knocking on the door, but received no response. He then returned to his room for the evening.
On March 24, 1986, at approximately 9:30 a.m., the co-worker returned to Yates’ room and knocked several times. At approximately 9:45 a.m., with the assistance of motel housekeeping staff, the door was opened to check on Yates’ welfare.
Yates was found lying on the floor of the room, deceased. LVMPD Patrol Officers and Homicide Detectives responded to the scene. An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Yates died from a gunshot wound to the head.
During the investigation, it was learned Yates had approximately $700 to $800 on his person at the time of his death, which was missing. A canvass of surrounding rooms revealed no witnesses observed or heard anything suspicious.
READ: LVMPD Press Release March 24, 1986
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article March 26, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-48653
Victim: Dale Lee Whitehead
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Uptown Motel, 813 E. Ogden Avenue, Room #13, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: March 14-15, 1986
Synopsis: On March 15, 1986, at approximately 11:45 a.m., the manager of the Uptown Motel, located at 813 E. Ogden Avenue, discovered a deceased male inside Room #13. The manager exited the room and immediately contacted police.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol officers responded and located the body of a deceased male lying on the living room floor. The victim was later identified as Dale Lee Whitehead.
During the homicide investigation, detectives identified two witnesses who provided information regarding a possible suspect. One witness reported that on March 14, 1986, at approximately 7:00 p.m., an unknown male came to the motel asking to speak with the victim. The suspect was described as a White male, approximately 5 feet tall, with long, stringy hair and a full beard. He was reportedly wearing blue jeans and a brown corduroy jacket and appeared to be intoxicated.
Another witness reported that on March 15, 1986, at approximately 1:30 a.m., they heard banging noises coming from Room #13. After receiving no response from Whitehead, individuals later entered the room to check on his welfare.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner determined Whitehead died as a result of multiple stab wounds to the torso.
Detectives learned Whitehead was known to assist others by providing money and occasionally offering a place to stay. The motel room appeared to have been ransacked prior to police arrival, and investigators believe items and money were taken during the incident. Detectives believe Whitehead may have been the victim of a robbery.
READ: LVMPD Composite Sketch 1
READ: LVMPD Composite Sketch 2
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-48653
Victim: Gregory Earnest Martinez, 34
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1412 Long Acres Drive Unit #69, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: March 12, 1986
Synopsis: On March 12, 1986, at approximately 5:55 p.m., family members discovered Gregory Earnest Martinez deceased in the living room of his apartment located at 1412 Long Acres Drive, Unit #69.
The Clark County Coroner conducted a complete autopsy and determined Martinez died as a result of a gunshot wound to the head.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned Martinez’s bedroom had been ransacked. Detectives also developed information indicating Martinez was allegedly involved in the sale of narcotics and had reportedly purchased narcotics the previous evening.
Investigators observed no signs of forced entry into the apartment and believe Martinez may have known the suspect or suspects and allowed them entry. Detectives believe a struggle ensued during a robbery involving narcotics and/or U.S. currency, resulting in Martinez being shot. The bedroom appeared to have been ransacked as the suspect or suspects searched for drugs and/or money.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-46384
Victim: Walter F. Rada, 53
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Galaxy Motel, 3655 S. Las Vegas Boulevard, Room 125, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: February 27, 1986
Synopsis: Walter F. Rada was visiting Las Vegas from Waverly, Iowa, on a work trip to attend a convention at the Dunes Hotel with coworkers.
On February 27, 1986, at approximately 1:30 p.m., housekeeping personnel entered Room 125 at the Galaxy Motel and discovered a deceased White male lying on the floor. Responding patrol officers initially observed no obvious signs of trauma; however, the victim’s wallet, identification, and U.S. currency were missing from the room.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner later identified the victim as Walter F. Rada. The coroner determined Rada died from ligature strangulation of an unknown type and also suffered a broken neck.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned Rada was known to wear expensive jewelry and display large amounts of cash. Detectives determined Rada had been at the Dunes Hotel and later at the MGM Grand Hotel, where he was seen gambling and drinking the previous evening.
Rada was later traced to a bookstore near Paradise Road and Flamingo Road before checking into the Galaxy Motel with another White male. The male was described by a motel clerk as approximately 6 feet tall, in his early 20s, weighing approximately 180 pounds, with blonde hair.
A search of Rada’s room at the Dunes Hotel revealed his high-end jewelry, wallet, and U.S. currency had been left hidden there and were not in his possession at the time of his death.
Homicide detectives were contacted by other law enforcement agencies in different jurisdictions regarding similar cases involving victims with comparable characteristics. Those cases involved male victims, typically between 40 and 50 years old, who were robbed and killed by ligature strangulation.
Composite sketches were developed by both LVMPD and an out-of-state agency based on witness descriptions.
REVIEW: LVMPD Composite Sketch and Flyer
REVIEW: New Jersey State Police Composite Sketch
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-44406
Victim: Jan Kalnins, 66
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 131 West Baltimore Avenue #B2, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: February 2, 1986
Synopsis: On February 15, 1986, at approximately 11:45 p.m., a deceased adult male was discovered inside the bathroom of his residence at 131 West Baltimore Avenue, apartment #B2. The discovery was made by Las Vegas Fire Department personnel who had responded to the location for fire suppression.
The male had suffered injuries to his head and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner later identified the victim as Jan Kalnins. The coroner determined Kalnins died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned Kalnins’ 1975 Dodge van, described as brown and tan in color, was missing from the location. His wallet was also reported missing from the apartment.
Witnesses reported seeing smoke and smelling fire coming from the apartment. Several witnesses also observed three possible suspects fleeing from apartment #B2, described as two males and one female.
Detectives believe Kalnins may have been the victim of a robbery in which unknown individuals entered his apartment, and a struggle ensued. Evidence at the scene indicated Kalnins may have attempted to escape through a bathroom window. Witnesses also reported hearing an unknown male screaming for help.
Kalnins’ vehicle was later recovered in the Las Vegas area.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles February 17-18, 1986
READ: Las Vegas Run Article February 18, 1986
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles March 2-5, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 86-41760
Victim: Robert E. Ellis, 43
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 220 Maulding Avenue, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Discovered on January, 31, 1986
Synopsis: On January 31, 1986, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Robert Ellis was found deceased in the living room area of his residence at 220 Maulding Avenue.
The victim worked in real estate and had resided in Las Vegas for several years. He was last seen alive in the evening on January 29, 1986, in the area of the Palace Station Casino.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-83583
Victim: Lien Thi Nguyen, 46
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Allen Lane North of Lone Mountain Road
Date: Between August 12, 1985-March 18, 1986
Synopsis: In August 1985, a female identified as Lien Thi Nguyen traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada from the Lennox, California area as part of a gambling junket. When Nguyen failed to return home, her son reported her missing to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department on October 12, 1985.
On March 18, 1986, a witness discovered skeletal remains at an illegal dumpsite in the desert area near Allen Lane and Lone Mountain Road and contacted police.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office later identified the remains as those of Lien Thi Nguyen. The coroner determined Nguyen’s death was a homicide due to a skull fracture.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives worked with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and learned Nguyen had last been seen in Las Vegas. Investigators also learned Nguyen had used a pay phone on August 12, 1985, in the area of Seventh Street and Ogden Avenue.
REVIEW: Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Missing Person Bulletin
READ: LVMPD Press Release March 18, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-33193
Victim: Evelyn Lee Sullivan, 34
Suspect: Unknown
Location: U.S. 93 near Mile Marker 14, Mohave County, Arizona
Date: Between November 29, 1985 and December 7, 1985
Synopsis: On December 7, 1985, at approximately 11:30 a.m., National Park Service Rangers in the Willow Beach area responded to a wash along U.S. 93 near mile marker 14 after receiving a report of a nude woman lying at the bottom of the wash.
Due to the location’s proximity to the Nevada-Arizona state line, both the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department responded to the scene.
An autopsy conducted by the Mohave County Coroner’s Office positively identified the woman as Evelyn Lee Sullivan. Sullivan had sustained multiple stab wounds to the torso, and investigators determined her body had been dumped along the roadside in the wash area.
Records checks revealed Sullivan had been reported missing by her family on November 29, 1985, under LVMPD Event #85-33193.
During the investigation, detectives learned Sullivan had been left at a Union 76 truck stop by a male friend after the two had argued. Sullivan remained at the truck stop and later called her family at approximately 2:30 a.m., asking for someone to pick her up. At that time, she was wearing a red shirt and black sweatpants.
When a family member arrived at the truck stop on Blue Diamond Road, Sullivan could not be located.
Based on the lack of evidence at the wash where the body was discovered, detectives believe Sullivan was murdered at another location and her body was later dumped along U.S. 93.
READ: LVMPD Missing Persons Flyer
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-91864
Victim: Walter Mayfield McClain Jr., 61
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 5252 South Maryland Parkway #19, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: Between November 15, 1985 and December 29, 1985
Synopsis: On November 29, 1985, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol officers were dispatched to an apartment complex located at 5252 South Maryland Parkway after receiving reports of a foul odor coming from apartment #19.
Two witnesses from the apartment complex entered the unit and discovered a deceased male lying on the living room floor. Homicide detectives were notified and responded to the scene.
The Clark County Coroner later identified the victim as Walter Mayfield McClain Jr. An autopsy determined McClain died as a result of multiple stab wounds.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned McClain had been living at the apartment for several months, and management reported no prior issues involving him. A canvass of nearby residents revealed no one had recently seen or heard anything suspicious.
However, one resident recalled seeing McClain on November 15, 1985, walking to the apartment with an unidentified White male. The male was described as approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall, between his late 20s and 30s, weighing approximately 185 pounds, with short brown hair and blue eyes.
Another resident reported McClain had stated he was a successful gambler and frequently carried large amounts of cash. The resident indicated they had previously advised him not to openly display his money.
Detectives believe McClain may have been the victim of a robbery; however, the apartment did not appear to have been ransacked.
READ: LVMPD Press Release November 29, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles November 30, 1985 and December 4, 1985
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-89225
Victim: Juan Jose Sharpe, 51
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Cedar Avenue and Wardelle Street / Recovered from Lake Mead, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: Between November 13-20, 1985
Synopsis: On November 15, 1985, Juan Jose Sharpe was reported missing to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department by his son. Sharpe was last seen at his residence on November 13, 1985, when he left driving a 1977 white Ford station wagon.
On the evening of November 13, 1985, LVMPD patrol officers were dispatched to the area of Cedar Avenue and Wardelle Street in response to reports of gunshots. Witnesses reported seeing a light-colored station wagon in the area at the time of the gunfire.
According to witnesses, two males were inside the vehicle, which had parked on the east side of Wardelle Street. One witness reported hearing gunshots fired from the vehicle. Both witnesses then observed the passenger exit the front passenger seat, crouch down, and fire approximately four additional gunshots into the vehicle.
The suspect then pushed the driver over, entered the driver’s seat, and drove away with the victim still inside the vehicle. The vehicle was last seen traveling north on Wardelle Street and then eastbound on Bonanza Road.
Witnesses described the suspect as a Black male with an afro hairstyle and a mustache, approximately 6 feet tall with a stocky build.
On November 20, 1985, at approximately 11:30 a.m., U.S. Park Rangers discovered the body of an adult Hispanic male floating in Lake Mead in an area known as Upper Gypsum Cove. The victim had been wrapped in material, and a cinder block was attached to his body.
The Clark County Coroner later identified the victim as Juan Jose (Joseph) Sharpe. The coroner determined the cause of death to be gunshot wounds to the face.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles November 17-18, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles November 21, 1985
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-89861
Victim: Lawanda Ann Yates
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area approximately 90 feet north of the intersection of Vegas Drive and Buffalo Drive, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between November 3, 1985 and November 17, 1985
Synopsis: On November 17, 1985, at approximately 6:16 p.m., two males who were target shooting in a desert area near the intersection of Vegas Drive and Buffalo Drive discovered the body of a Black female in a debris pile.
The witnesses immediately left the area and contacted Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol officers, who responded to the scene.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner identified the victim as Lawanda Ann Yates. The coroner determined Yates had died from multiple gunshot wounds.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned Yates had prior arrests for solicitation of prostitution in the downtown Las Vegas area, near 10th Street and Stewart Avenue. Detectives also determined that Yates had not been reported missing prior to the discovery of her body.
Investigators developed information indicating the suspect may have been driving a two-tone blue van of unknown make and model. The suspect was described as a Black adult male, approximately 45 years old, between 5 feet 6 inches and 5 feet 7 inches tall, with a thin build and short afro-style hair.
READ: LVMPD Press Release November 17, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles November 18-19, 1985
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-88740
Victim: Dennis Gene Pingree, also known as, Sheldon Von Penike, 34
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 50 N. 21st Street #181, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: Between November 10, 1985 and November 11, 1985
Synopsis: On November 11, 1985, at approximately 3:15 a.m., a witness contacted LVMPD Patrol Officers after discovering a deceased male inside his apartment located at 50 N. 21st Street, Apartment 181.
According to the witness, he had left his apartment around 11:00 p.m. on November 10, 1985, leaving Dennis Gene Pingree inside the residence asleep. When the witness returned a few hours later, he found Pingree lying deceased on the living room floor.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Pingree died from a stab wound to the chest.
During the investigation, homicide detectives were unable to determine whether Pingree had been stabbed prior to entering the apartment or sometime after he arrived inside the residence.
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article November 12, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article November 12-13, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article November 13, 1985
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-81324
Victim: Nelly M. Miroglio, 55
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 4500 block of E. Sahara Avenue at Arden Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: September 29, 1985
Synopsis: On September 29, 1985, at approximately 7:00 a.m., a jogger running in the area discovered a deceased White female lying in the front seat of a black Pontiac sedan parked in the 4500 block of East Sahara Avenue near Arden Avenue. The jogger observed a large amount of blood inside the vehicle and ran to a nearby residence to summon medical assistance and police.
Responding officers arrived and confirmed the female was deceased.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Nelly M. Miroglio. The coroner determined Miroglio died from a single gunshot wound to the head.
During the investigation, a witness contacted homicide detectives after learning about the case through news reports. The witness stated he had been traveling in the area at approximately 4:50 a.m. and observed a male driving a dark-colored Buick or Chevrolet.
The witness described the driver as a White male adult, approximately 30–40 years old, with a small build and a receding hairline. The suspect was reportedly wearing dark clothing.
Based on evidence recovered at the scene, homicide detectives believe Miroglio was the victim of a robbery and was shot during or shortly after the robbery. Investigators learned Miroglio had left work at the Las Vegas Hilton between approximately 4:00 and 4:30 a.m., and her vehicle was later found parked alongside the roadway where she was discovered.
READ: LVMPD Press Release September 29, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles September 30, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles October 1-4, 1985
WATCH: LVMPD Never Forgotten Series on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, LinkedIn, TikTok
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-76950
Victim: Darilyn Midori Mansfield-Nakamura, 32
Suspect: Unknown
Location: I-15 and Apex Road, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between September 21, 1985 and October 13, 1985
Synopsis: On September 21, 1985, Darilyn Midori Mansfield-Nakamura spent part of the day shopping before attending an appointment to have her nails done. After the appointment, Mansfield-Nakamura and her nail technician went to the Sittin Bull Lounge located at 3220 N. Jones Boulevard.
While at the lounge, the two spoke about Mansfield-Nakamura’s marriage. The nail technician’s boyfriend later joined them at the bar. According to the nail technician, Mansfield-Nakamura also engaged several other patrons in conversation throughout the evening. At some point, the nail technician and her boyfriend left the bar, leaving Mansfield-Nakamura behind.
Detectives later located and interviewed several individuals who had been inside the bar that evening; however, none were able to determine who Mansfield-Nakamura left with that night.
On September 22, 1985, Mansfield-Nakamura’s husband reported her missing to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
On September 25, 1985, the owner of the Wagon Wheel Bar contacted LVMPD regarding an abandoned vehicle in the business’s north parking lot. Officers responded and determined the vehicle belonged to Mansfield-Nakamura, who had previously been reported missing. The vehicle was described as a gold 1977 Chrysler Cordoba. Officers noted there appeared to be no damage to the vehicle. After it was processed by Crime Scene Technicians, the vehicle was later released to her husband.
On October 13, 1985, a witness riding an ATV in the desert area near I-15 and Apex Road discovered human remains. The witness immediately left the area and contacted LVMPD.
When homicide detectives arrived, they determined the body had been dumped in a gully area approximately one-half mile from the intersection of I-15 and Apex Road.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the skeletal remains as those of Darilyn Midori Mansfield-Nakamura.
Through interviews conducted during the investigation, detectives learned Mansfield-Nakamura was wearing valuable jewelry the night she disappeared and was believed to have been carrying a significant amount of cash.
READ: LVMPD Press Release October 13, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles September 28 - October 2, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles October 3-9, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles October 14-17, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article October 16, 1985
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-76950
Victim: John Donald Valin, 46
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 5822 Boulder Highway (parking lot to rear of Bungalow Bar) Las Vegas, NV
Date: September 5, 1985
Synopsis: John Valin and a female companion were, seated in a 1983 Ford Ranger pickup truck, behind the Bungalow Bar when the suspect fired several rounds through the rear window of the truck. John was struck several times and died at the scene. The companion was struck once in the head, but survived the wound. The companion was unable to provide any information on the suspect. John Valin and his companion were involved in an altercation inside of the Bar shortly before the shooting. Detectives learned that a previous altercation involving John and his companion occurred at the Lucille's Lucky Seven lounge which was located a short distance from the Bungalow Bar. There are no known witnesses to the shooting.
READ: LVMPD Press Release September 5, 1985
READ: las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles September 6-8, 1985
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-76905
Victim: Mason Ross, 50
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 922 W. Adams Street, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: September 5, 1985
Synopsis: On September 5, 1985, at approximately 3:07 p.m., LVMPD patrol officers were dispatched to 922 W. Adams Street after receiving a 911 call reporting a male who had allegedly committed suicide.
Upon arrival, officers located a male, later identified as Mason Ross, lying in a bedroom deceased from an apparent gunshot wound.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Ross had been shot in the head.
During the investigation, detectives learned Ross had been out earlier in the day and had reportedly been arguing with his girlfriend prior to the incident.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-76455
Victim: Herbert N. Gillespie, 54
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Sugar Hill Cocktail Lounge – Lexington Street and Miller Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: Between September 3-5, 1985
Synopsis: On September 3, 1985, at approximately 5:00 a.m., Herbert N. Gillespie became the victim of a robbery and battery with substantial bodily harm after he was physically assaulted at the Sugar Hill Cocktail Lounge.
Gillespie sustained blunt force trauma to the head and was transported to Valley Hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, he never regained consciousness and was pronounced deceased on September 6, 1985. As a result, investigators were unable to obtain a statement from the victim.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Gillespie suffered severe trauma to the head and left temporal area of the skull. He also sustained fractures at the base of the skull.
During the investigation, detectives canvassed the area and located a witness who reported that a struggle occurred in the parking lot of the Sugar Hill Cocktail Lounge between Gillespie and an unknown male. The altercation reportedly began inside the lounge during an argument that embarrassed the suspect and continued outside into the parking lot. Approximately 15 people were believed to have been present at the time of the incident; however, no witnesses were able to identify the suspect.
The suspect was described as a Black male adult, approximately 5’4” tall, between 25 and 30 years old, with a medium build, afro hairstyle, brown eyes, and a moustache. He was reportedly wearing black pants, a white sweatshirt, and a white baseball cap.
READ: Secret Witness Reward Bulletin
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article September 11, 1685
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-55574
Victim: Leslie Herberth, 25
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Santa Fe Trail Motel #1, Las Vegas, NV
Date: May 3, 1985
Synopsis: Leslie Herberth was last seen entering the MGM with an unidentified White male, after being picked up by a cab at the Santa Fe Trail Motel at approximately 4:00 a.m. She was discovered in the bed of room #1 at the Santa Fe Trail Motel by the Manager who heard water running at approximately 8:00 a.m. No witnesses observed the victim return to the Santa Fe Trail Motel between 4:00-8:00 a.m. No suspect has been identified.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-52711
Victim: Arthur Williams Jr., 3
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 217 W. New York (The York Apartments)
Date: April 15, 1985, approximately 6 p.m.
Synopsis: On the evening of April 15, 1985, at approximately 6pm, Arthur and his 5-year-old sister were playing outside of their apartment. A white male adult was sitting on a wall near the sidewalk on W. New York. Arthur’s sister heard the male say, “I’m going to kill you. I’m going to hurt you.”
The suspect hopped off the wall, pulled a folding knife out of his pocket and approached Arthur. The suspect unfolded the knife, walked up to Arthur, and swung one-time striking Arthur in the head. The suspect then ran down an alley off W. New York. Arthur was transported to a local hospital where he died from the stab wound to his head.
The murder was only witnessed by Arthur’s sister. The suspect was described as a white male adult, wearing a white button shirt, and blue jeans. Arthur’s sister stated she had never seen the suspect in the area before.
REVIEW: Police document
READ: News Articles from 1985
LISTEN: The Badge and Beyond: Inside the World of LVMPD Unsolved: A Child's Life Cut Short in 1985
Suspect sketch:
WATCH: LVMPD Never Forgotten Spotlight Series:
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 85-46007
Victim: Patricia Lynn Allen, 33
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Sun Valley and Nellis Blvd., 4600 block of Shepard
Date: Between March 7-8, 1985
Synopsis: Between approximately 10:22 p.m. on March 7, 1985, and 3:48 p.m. on March 8, 1985, Patricia Lynn Allen became the victim of a kidnapping, robbery, and murder. Allen was found in the backseat of her vehicle after suffering multiple stab wounds and blunt force trauma to the head.
Allen was six months pregnant at the time of her murder. She was driving a tan/brown 1980 Chrysler New Yorker bearing Nevada license plates. Allen was last seen leaving the Smith’s grocery store located near Nellis Boulevard and Tropicana Avenue, en route to her residence on Merrill Avenue.
Allen’s vehicle was later found parked at the curb in front of an abandoned residence in the 4600 block of Shepard Street. The vehicle remained there until a neighbor walking by observed a body lying in the back seat and called 911.
Allen’s husband had contacted LVMPD at approximately 12:30 a.m. on March 8, 1985, to report his wife missing after she failed to return home from the market.
Allen was last known to be wearing a white T-shirt with blue sleeves, gray sweatpants, and socks. Her shoes were missing.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Allen had been stabbed multiple times and had suffered several blows to the head. Defensive wounds were also present on her hands.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned through witness statements that Allen was most likely the victim of a carjacking near the intersection of Sun Valley Drive and Nellis Boulevard.
A possible suspect was described as a White male, approximately 5’10” to 6’0” tall, wearing a dark-colored military-style jacket. Investigators believe the suspect may have forced Allen to drive to a nearby church where a struggle occurred. Allen was reportedly struck in the head multiple times with an unknown object before being forced back into the rear floorboard area of her vehicle, where she was stabbed multiple times.
READ: Patricia Lynn Allen Homicide Bulletin
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article March 10, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article May 12, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article continued May 12, 1985
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article continued May 12, 1985
READ: Undated newspaper article
READ: Undated newspaper article continued
READ: Newspaper clipping March 11, 1991
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 84-91540
Victim: Ruben Ceballo, 37
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 118 S. Mojave Road #2, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: December 15, 1984
Synopsis: On December 15, 1984, at approximately 4:00–5:30 p.m., a neighboring resident spoke with Ruben Ceballo in front of their apartments located at 118 S. Mojave Road. At approximately 9:00 p.m., the same neighbor returned to Ceballo’s apartment and knocked on the door but did not receive an answer. The neighbor then looked through the window and observed the legs of a person lying on the kitchen floor.
The apartment manager was summoned and used her key to unlock the front door. Upon entering, they discovered Ruben Ceballo lying on the kitchen floor covered in blood. LVMPD officers were then called to the scene.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined that Ceballo died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned that Ceballo had recently moved to Las Vegas from the Miami, Florida area, and had previously immigrated to Florida from Cuba. Detectives also noted that the bedroom of the apartment appeared to have been ransacked.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 84-79821
Victim: Prescilla Diane Moody, 22
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 261 Westchester #254, Las Vegas, NV
Date: October 4-5, 1984
Synopsis: On October 5, 1984, at approximately 7:10 a.m., the estranged husband of Prescilla Moody returned home and found his wife deceased while lying in their bed. He immediately ran next door to a neighbor, and 911 was contacted for police and medical response.
Through their investigation, Homicide Detectives learned Prescilla and her husband had recently reconciled. On October 4, 1984, the two spent the day running errands and picking up their paychecks at Southern Nevada Medical Center. Prescilla's husband later left for work at approximately 10:20 p.m. and arrived at his place of employment around 10:30 p.m. He worked the graveyard shift and returned to the apartment at approximately 7:00 a.m.
Upon returning home and entering the apartment, he found the front door closed but the deadbolt unlocked. When he initially entered, he did not observe anything suspicious, and nothing appeared out of place.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner revealed Prescilla Diane Moody had suffered multiple lacerations and stab wounds.
READ: LVMPD Press Release Oct. 5, 1984
READ: Las Vegas Sun and Las Vegas Review Journal Articles October 6, 1984
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 84-74048
Victim: Antonio Lujan Bravo, 47
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Rainbow Boulevard, approximately 3.2 miles south of Tropicana Avenue, Las Vegas, NV
Date: September 2, 1984
Synopsis: On September 2, 1984, at approximately 9:10 a.m., a couple jogging south on Rainbow Boulevard observed the body of a male lying just off the roadway. They stopped and approached the male, observing that he was handcuffed with his hands behind his back and appeared to be deceased. The couple immediately went to the nearest 7-Eleven and contacted LVMPD.
Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and observed both shoe impressions and tire impressions near the deceased. Detectives documented the area through ground and aerial photography and collected impression evidence.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office revealed the male had been shot in the chest and died as a result of the gunshot wound. During an inventory of the decedent’s personal property, a Nevada Driver’s License identified him as Antonio Lujan Bravo, who was employed as a cab driver for Checker Cab Company.
Bravo was last seen alive by his roommate at approximately 4:00 a.m. after she picked him up from work. The roommate stated she did not know where Bravo went after he left the residence.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 84-73332
Victim: Richard Allan Newson, 56
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Las Vegas Boulevard North (SR-604) near mile marker 68, northeast Las Vegas Valley, near the Union Pacific Railroad yard
Date: Between August 16, 1984 and August 28, 1984
Synopsis: On August 28, 1984, at approximately 8:30 a.m., a juvenile discovered skeletal remains near an abandoned building approximately 30 yards from State Route 604, or Las Vegas Blvd. North, near the present day Speedway/Apex area. The juvenile immediately reported the finding to an adult, who contacted LVMPD.
Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and conducted a canvass of the area. During the investigation, detectives located personal items belonging to the victim, including a wallet containing identification for Richard Allan Newson.
Through investigative efforts, detectives learned that Newson was experiencing homelessness and was known to live in his yellow 1972 AMC Matador while traveling throughout the area.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office later positively identified the skeletal remains through dental records and x-rays. The Coroner ruled Newson’s cause of death to be blunt force trauma to the head.
Further investigation revealed Newson had previously owned a thrift store in the Las Vegas area before selling the business. Detectives also learned he had been the victim of a prior robbery and kidnapping when suspect(s) attempted to steal U.S. currency from him.
On August 30, 1984, Newson’s 1972 AMC Matador was recovered after being abandoned on Interstate 15 near Exit 7 in Summit, Utah. Personal belongings belonging to Newson were located inside the vehicle, along with several items of women’s and female child’s clothing.
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article August 19, 1984
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles August 29-30, 1984
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 84-72683
Victim: Howard Edward Jones
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1200 block of Kari Lee Circle, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between August 22, 1984 and August 24, 1984
Synopsis: On August 24, 1984, at approximately 7:41 a.m., LVMPD received multiple 911 calls reporting a male covered in blood lying in the driveway of a newly constructed home in the 1200 block of Kari Lee Circle.
Responding Patrol Officers located the deceased body of an adult male lying in the driveway of a residence under construction.
The Clark County Coroner conducted an autopsy and positively identified the decedent through fingerprint comparison as Howard Edward Jones. The cause of death was determined to be multiple gunshot wounds.
Through investigation, Homicide Detectives determined Jones had been shot at a different location and his body was subsequently transported and left at the Kari Lee Circle address. Jones did not have identification on his person and was not immediately identified at the scene.
Construction workers arriving for work discovered the body. They reported seeing no suspicious persons or vehicles in the area at the time of their arrival.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles August 25, 1984
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article October 23, 1984
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 84-69412
Victim: Mark Michael Gebo, 27
Suspect: Unknown
Location: El Cortez Hotel and Casino, Men's Restroom. 600 E. Fremont Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: August 3, 1984
Synopsis: On August 3, 1984, at approximately 1:45 a.m., two security guards at the El Cortez Hotel & Casino observed an adult male enter the men’s restroom located on the north end of the casino. Security personnel noted the male was not wearing a shirt, which was against hotel policy, and made contact with him inside the restroom.
Security stated they observed the male crouched over the center toilet vomiting. When asked if he was okay, the male replied that he was not feeling well.
At approximately 2:00 a.m., the same security guards checked on the male again and observed him seated on the toilet in the same center stall. When asked if he needed assistance, he stated he was feeling better and finishing up. Security advised the male he would need to leave the property and exited the restroom.
At approximately 2:40 a.m., a patron notified security that a male inside the men’s restroom needed assistance. Three security guards re-entered the restroom and observed the same male slumped off the toilet. Believing he was intoxicated, they attempted to wake him and used ammonia capsules when he did not respond. Security moved the male onto the restroom floor and determined he had no pulse. Medical personnel responded and pronounced him deceased.
Medical personnel and responding LVMPD Patrol Officers observed the male had several cuts and abrasions, though there was no active bleeding. One responding officer and security personnel recognized the male as someone who had frequent prior contact with police related to fights in the downtown area.
The Clark County Coroner conducted a complete autopsy and positively identified the decedent as Mark Michael Gebo. The cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma to the torso caused by an unknown hard object, which ruptured his spleen and resulted in internal bleeding.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles August 4, 1984
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article August 19, 1984
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 84-62098
Victim: Samuel Weiss, 71
Suspect: Unknown
Location: AAA Avis Motel, Room #2
Date: Between June 16, 1984 and June 17, 1984
Synopsis: On June 17, 1984, at approximately 10:00 a.m., housekeeping staff entered Room #2 at the AAA Avis Motel and discovered a deceased adult male lying on the couch inside the room in a pool of blood. The employee immediately exited and motel personnel contacted LVMPD.
Homicide Detectives responded and determined the room was registered to Samuel Weiss.
During a canvass of the area, detectives learned that a motel patron observed a male knocking on the door of Room #2 the previous evening between approximately 8:00 and 8:30 p.m. The witness described the male as Hispanic, 30 to 35 years old, approximately 150 to 160 pounds, with reddish-brown hair parted in the middle and a mustache. He was described as wearing an off-white or yellow shirt, cutoff jeans, and sunglasses, and possibly driving a newer model gray Chevrolet truck.
A separate motel patron reported walking past Room #2 at approximately 10:30 p.m. and hearing arguing coming from inside the room.
During interviews, detectives learned Weiss routinely carried large amounts of cash on his person and was known to display it openly.
The Clark County Coroner conducted an autopsy and positively identified the decedent as Samuel Weiss. The cause of death was determined to be multiple stab wounds to the chest.
Based on evidence located at the scene, detectives determined Weiss was the victim of a robbery. A composite sketch was completed with the witness who observed the male knocking on Weiss’ door between 8:00 and 8:30 p.m.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 84-42594
Victim: John Ruzzene, 29
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Castaway Hotel and Casino Parking Lot
Date: Reported Missing- February 10, 1984 Recovered May 5, 1986
Synopsis: On February 10, 1984, at approximately 7:07 p.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers responded to the parking lot of the Castaways Hotel & Casino to take a missing person report for John Ruzzene. The person who contacted police was Ruzzene’s roommate and coworker. He stated Ruzzene had not returned home and had failed to report to work, which was out of character for him.
Ruzzene and the roommate were both employed by 7-UP. According to the roommate, Ruzzene lived a regimented lifestyle. He never missed work, always turned in his paperwork at the end of the workday, and would notify his roommate if he planned to be away from home. Concerned by his absence, the roommate began searching for him and located Ruzzene’s vehicle parked at the Castaways Hotel & Casino, which he found suspicious.
Ruzzene’s coworkers and girlfriend indicated there were no known problems at work or in his personal life. Detectives entered Ruzzene’s blue Volkswagen and recovered paperwork documenting his work route. His wallet was missing. Recovered documents indicated Ruzzene’s last known stop was at the Frontier Hotel and Casino, where he made contact with an employee at the back dock area at approximately 9:30 a.m. on February 10, 1984.
Detectives contacted Ruzzene’s family, friends, and ex-wife. Most reported last seeing or speaking with him a day or two before he went missing, and nothing appeared suspicious at that time. His ex-wife stated she last spoke with him on January 3, 1984.
Photographs of Ruzzene were circulated, and detectives obtained his dental records and dental x-rays.
On May 5, 1986, at approximately 9:10 a.m., LVMPD received a call from a male who reported discovering a human skull in a desert area approximately 3.1 miles south of State Route 160 (Blue Diamond Road) on Tecopa Hot Springs Highway, approximately 178 feet east of the roadway.
Homicide Detectives responded and conducted a search of the area, locating additional skeletal remains. The decedent was wearing a white shirt bearing a 7-UP logo and clothing consistent with that described in Ruzzene’s missing person report.
The Clark County Coroner conducted an autopsy and, utilizing the dental records obtained in 1984, positively identified the remains as John Ruzzene. The cause of death was determined to be a gunshot wound to the back of the head.
READ: LVMPD Missing Person Flyer
READ: Review Journal Article May 8, 1986
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 84-36572
Victim: William Daniels Jr., 61
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Stardust Hotel and Casino, 3000 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV (North Parking Lot)
Date: January 4, 1984
Synopsis: On January 4, 1984, at approximately 5:04 a.m., an LVMPD patrol officer was conducting routine patrol in the north parking lot of the Stardust Hotel & Casino when he observed the door open on a parked 1975 Buick Skylark.
As the officer approached the vehicle, he discovered a white adult male lying in the front passenger seat suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the head.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as William Daniels Jr. The cause of death was determined to be a single gunshot wound to the head.
During the homicide investigation, detectives learned Daniels had been gambling at the Stardust earlier that morning. At approximately 3:00 a.m., Daniels reportedly won a considerable amount of money. Investigators believe he was likely followed from the casino to his vehicle and robbed of his winnings.
It is believed the suspect(s) approached Daniels as he was entering his vehicle, shot him once in the back of the head, and stole his car keys and cash.
On January 15, 1984, at approximately 11:30 p.m., two black adult males attempted to break into Daniels’ residence using the keys taken during the robbery. Daniels’ wife had already changed the locks. After hearing the suspects attempting to force entry, she turned on the lights, looked outside, and called 911.
She described one suspect as a black male adult, 35 to 40 years old, approximately 6’0” to 6’3” tall, with a medium build, dark complexion, long curly hair, clean-shaven, wearing a black leather jacket and dark pants. He was seen entering the passenger side of an older full-size tan or beige station wagon with unknown Nevada license plates.
The second suspect was described as a black male adult in his early 30s, approximately 5’10” to 6’0” tall, with a slim build. He was last seen entering the driver’s side of the station wagon.
READ: LVMPD Press Release January 4, 1984
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles January 5-6, 1984
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-88179
Victim: Robert Lynn Schleeter, 41
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Powerline Road near mile marker 68 on US 93, Clark County, Nevada
Date: Between December 15, 1983, and December 27, 1983
Synopsis: On December 27, 1983, at approximately 10:45 a.m., employees of the Lincoln County Power Company were working in the area of Powerline Road, which runs parallel to US 93 near mile markers 67–68, when they observed the body of a deceased adult male lying off the northeast edge of the roadway.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Robert Lynn Schleeter and determined the cause of death to be strangulation, blunt force trauma, and multiple stab wounds to the chest.
A review of LVMPD missing person records revealed Schleeter had been reported missing by his wife on December 15, 1983. At the time he was reported missing, Schleeter was believed to be driving a yellow 1979 Chevrolet LUV pickup truck with a white camper shell and Nevada registration.
During the investigation, Schleeter’s vehicle was located and recovered on January 16, 1984, at the rear of a car wash near Ninth Street and Fremont Street.
A motive for the murder was never determined, other than the apparent theft of Schleeter’s vehicle.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article December 28, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article December 29, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Press Release
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-81326
Victim: John Daniel Kauke, 25
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Powerline Road, approximately 3.1 miles north of Roban, Silver Saddle area, Clark County, Nevada
Date: Between November 10, 1983, and November 11, 1983
Synopsis: On November 11, 1983, at approximately 8:00 a.m., a motorist traveling through a desert area observed the body of a deceased male along Powerline Road near the Silver Saddle area. The victim was partially buried in sand. He was wearing a blue zippered hooded sweatshirt, blue work-style pants, black shoes, and a yellow Timex watch. He was also wearing a brown leather belt with a silver buckle featuring a horse design.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as John Daniel Kauke and determined he died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head and asphyxiation.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned Kauke worked as a security officer. He had worked his regular shift on November 6, 1983, and was reportedly planning to travel to California to visit family. An interview with Kauke’s roommate revealed Kauke left their residence on November 8, 1983, driving his maroon 1977 two-door Buick with Nevada registration.
Detectives later spoke with a friend and co-worker who stated he last saw Kauke on November 10, 1983, at the Sahara Hotel and Casino. At that time, Kauke was at the property meeting a friend and attempting to borrow money. Investigators learned Kauke had recently been laid off from the Sahara Hotel and Casino and had discussed an opportunity to make quick money by dealing stolen appliances in the Los Angeles area. Kauke did not provide details regarding who he was working with or how the transaction was to occur.
On November 23, 1983, Kauke’s vehicle was located at the Circus Circus Hotel and Casino and was processed by LVMPD Criminalistics.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-78851
Victim: Lisa Traver
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area west of 215, off Ann Road
Date: Between October 19, 1983, and October 31, 1983
Synopsis: Lisa Traver was last seen at Brinley Middle School on October 19, 1983. On October 31, 1983, Lisa’s body was discovered in the desert area at the far west end of Ann Road. The parents had filed a missing persons report when Lisa failed to return home from school on the 19th. The Coroner’s Office listed Lisa’s cause of death as blunt force trauma to the head.
READ: News Articles from 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-76028
Victim: Karen D. McLaughlin, 31, also known as Hobbs
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 3535 Cambridge Street, Apartment 120, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: October 18, 1983
Synopsis: On October 18, 1983, the body of Karen McLaughlin, also known as Hobbs, was discovered inside her apartment at 3535 Cambridge Street, Apartment 120, by her roommate. McLaughlin was found lying on her bed and appeared to have been strangled.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined McLaughlin died as a result of strangulation and had also sustained blunt force trauma to the face.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned McLaughlin was a hairdresser. There were no signs of forced entry into the apartment, leading detectives to believe the suspect or suspects were known to McLaughlin and were allowed inside. No evidence of a robbery was noted at the time.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles October 19-20, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article December 1, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Press Release
WATCH: LVMPD Never Forgotten Spotlight Series:
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-58771
Victim: Jerry Amos, 29
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Beneath the US 95 / I-11 freeway between Main Street and Casino Center Drive, Las Vegas, Nevada
Date: July 23, 1983
Synopsis: On July 23, 1983, at approximately 8:00 a.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers were dispatched to the report of a deceased male located beneath the US 95 / I-11 freeway between Main Street and Casino Center Drive. While en route, officers received a second call regarding an unconscious male who was bleeding profusely behind the Repeat Boutique on Mesquite Avenue.
Witnesses in the area reported both males were transients who were known to associate with one another.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded and determined the incidents were separate scenes but likely related. Investigators learned both victims appeared to have been sleeping when they were attacked with an unknown weapon and beaten about the head and upper torso.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Jerry Amos died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head caused by an unknown weapon.
The two victims were located approximately 100 yards apart in the same immediate area and appeared to have been assaulted with the same type of unknown weapon.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-57079
Victim: Eugene Johnnylee Lucero, 40
Suspect: Unknown
Location: I-15 southbound near the Nevada/California state line, mile marker 7.53
Date: Between July 13, 1983, at approximately 5:30 p.m. and July 14, 1983, at approximately 1:00 p.m.
Synopsis: On July 13, 1983, at approximately 4:30 p.m., Eugene Lucero left his residence en route to the 3100 block of Vista Flora. He was driving a silver-gray 1980 Subaru with Nevada registration. Lucero departed the Vista Flora address at approximately 5:30 p.m. He was last seen wearing Bermuda-style shorts and was barefoot and shirtless.
On July 14, 1983, at approximately 1:00 p.m., the body of an adult male was discovered bound near mile marker 7.53 on southbound Interstate 15 near the Nevada/California state line, just off the roadway. An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Eugene Johnnylee Lucero and determined he died from strangulation and blunt force trauma. Lucero’s wallet was missing at the time he was discovered.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives were later contacted by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department regarding Lucero’s silver-gray Subaru, which had been entered into NCIC. Patrol officers had towed the vehicle from a residential complex in Lakewood, California, after residents reported it appeared abandoned. Detectives canvassed the area and learned the vehicle had been parked at the complex late on July 14, 1983; however, no witnesses were able to identify who was driving it. During an inventory of the vehicle, detectives observed blood in the trunk area and on several items inside.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-51283
Victim: Alex Hinton Jr., 41
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 600 block of West Bonanza Road, Las Vegas, NV
Date: June 13, 1983
Synopsis: On June 13, 1983, Alex Hinton Jr. left his place of employment at the Lady Luck Hotel and Casino at approximately 12:00 a.m. While walking home toward the Moulin Rouge, Hinton was shot in the back in the 600 block of West Bonanza Road at approximately 12:30 a.m.
Hinton was transported to Valley Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries at approximately 2:30 a.m.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Hinton died from a gunshot wound to the torso.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned Hinton was walking alone from his place of employment to his residence when he was shot from a passing vehicle. Detectives found no known issues involving Hinton at his place of employment. Although he was separated from his wife, investigators determined there were no known issues between the two.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun articles June 14-15, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Press Release June 13, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-57363
Victim: Clifford Chartrand, 37
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Behind 219 Paul Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: June 10, 1983
Synopsis: On June 10, 1983, Clifford Chartrand left a party at approximately 9:00 p.m. and went to a nearby friend’s residence to play dominoes. At approximately 10:45 p.m., Chartrand and his friend exited the apartment and began walking toward a Safeway store located near Rancho Drive and Bonanza Road.
While in the yard behind 219 Paul Street, Chartrand became involved in an altercation with a Black adult male, during which Chartrand was shot in the head.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Chartrand died from a gunshot wound to the head.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned Chartrand was the victim of a robbery during the altercation. Witnesses reported Chartrand had recently displayed a large amount of cash at a local store and was robbed and shot for the cash.
The suspect was described as a Black adult male, approximately 5’10” tall with a slender build. No further description was provided.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article June 30, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-48599
Victim: Riley S. Thorpe, 79, also known as “Thorp”
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Tropicana Village Mobile Home Park, 6900 West Tropicana Avenue, Space 373, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between May 27-31, 1983
Synopsis: On May 31, 1983, the body of Riley S. Thorpe was discovered inside his residence at the Tropicana Village Mobile Home Park, located at 6900 West Tropicana Avenue.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Thorpe died from strangulation.
During the investigation, LVMPD Homicide Detectives learned Thorpe was an avid racebook gambler in the Las Vegas area. Detectives believe Thorpe likely came into contact with the suspect or suspects through racebook gambling activities. The motive for the murder was determined to be robbery.
Security records from the Tropicana Village Mobile Home Park gate indicated the suspect may have been driving a white Ford Fairlane.
READ: Las Vegas Metro wanted individual information and sketch
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-48004
Victim: James Curran Ungaro, 36
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1954 Jasmine Circle, Las Vegas, NV
Date: May 27, 1983
Synopsis: On May 27, 1983, between approximately 2:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., James Curran Ungaro was murdered inside his residence located at 1954 Jasmine Circle. The scene indicated a violent struggle had occurred within the home.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office revealed Ungaro suffered multiple incised wounds to the neck and blunt force trauma to the head and torso.
During the investigation, Homicide Detectives learned Ungaro likely knew his assailant or assailants. There were no signs of forced entry into the residence, and several personal items belonging to Ungaro were reported missing.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun May 28, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal June 8, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-44668
Victim: Roland Peña Ibarra, 21
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 700 block of Naples Drive at Swenson Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: May 11, 1983
Synopsis: On May 11, 1983, at approximately 2:30 a.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers were dispatched to the 700 block of Naples Drive at Swenson Street after reports of a male lying in the roadway suffering from a gunshot wound to the head.
A witness reported a Black adult male, possibly Cuban, approximately 35 years old, about 5’6” tall, with short black hair and wearing a dark leather coat, knocked on the door of an apartment located at 722 Naples Drive, Unit #3. The witness stated her boyfriend, Roland Ibarra, answered the door and spoke with the male in Spanish. Ibarra then told the witness he would return shortly and instructed her to lock the door and not open it until he returned.
While waiting for Ibarra to return, the witness reported hearing a single “pop,” which she believed to be a gunshot, followed by the sound of sirens approximately ten minutes later. When she looked outside, she observed Ibarra lying in the street.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Ibarra died from a gunshot wound to the head.
During the investigation, Homicide Detectives learned Ibarra may have been experiencing personal issues related to his marital status.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles May 12, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-43836
Victim: Gemma Capozzoli, 27, also known as “Jimma”
Suspect: Unknown
Location: West Charleston Boulevard at Calico Basin, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between April 18, 1983 – May 6, 1983
Synopsis: On May 6, 1983, at approximately 12:00 p.m., a male walking his dog discovered the body of a deceased female lying partway down a ravine in the area of Calico Basin. The individual did not approach the body and instead went to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Visitor Center, where he contacted park rangers. Rangers escorted him back to the location and notified LVMPD.
During the investigation, Homicide Detectives learned a missing persons report had been filed with the Los Angeles Police Department and LVMPD. The deceased female was identified as Gemma R. Capozzoli, whose description matched the missing persons reports. Detectives contacted Capozzoli’s next of kin and learned she was employed by Pacific Bell Telephone and Telegraph Company.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined the cause and manner of death to be strangulation.
At the time she went missing, Capozzoli was last seen wearing a short-sleeve red and white horizontally striped shirt, blue Bon Jour jeans, and cream-colored western boots.
Further investigation revealed Capozzoli had traveled to Las Vegas from Los Angeles with a group of co-workers through Elite Tours. She was last seen by her co-workers leaving the Sahara Hotel and Casino in an intoxicated state while attempting to hail a taxi. Capozzoli was reported missing after she failed to return to Los Angeles with the tour group.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article May 15, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-38644
Victim: Roger Jerome Lower, 48
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 700 block of South 8th Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: April 8, 1983
Synopsis: On April 8, 1983, at approximately 7:57 p.m., Roger Jerome Lower was walking home with groceries he had purchased from a nearby Safeway when he was confronted and robbed in the middle of the street near 707 South 8th Street.
During the robbery, the suspect stole Lower’s wallet and shot him once in the head. Lower was transported to Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation revealed Lower was employed as a porter at the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino and was off work at the time of the incident. Detectives also learned a similar robbery had occurred approximately ten minutes earlier near 1st Street and Bonneville, about eight blocks from the homicide scene.
Witnesses from the earlier robbery described the suspect as a Black adult male with a thin build who approached the victim, demanded a wallet, and claimed to be armed with a gun.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article April 9-14, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article April 10, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article June 6, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-32625
Victim: Ralph Johnson, 60
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Conrad Hotel, 128 South 7th Street #1, Las Vegas, NV
Date: March 8, 1983
Synopsis: On March 8, 1983, at approximately 11:47 a.m., LVMPD Patrol Officers were dispatched to the Conrad Hotel following reports of a robbery and shooting.
Upon arrival, officers learned the victim, later identified as Ralph Johnson, the manager of the Conrad Hotel, had already been transported to Nevada Memorial Hospital suffering from a single gunshot wound. Johnson succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined Johnson died from a single gunshot wound to the torso. The investigation revealed Johnson was the victim of a robbery. Numerous witnesses were interviewed; however, conflicting information prevented detectives from identifying a suspect.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-26198
Victim: Cathryn Tighe
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area north of Indios and east of Mountain Vista, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between February 7, 1983 and March 2, 1983
Synopsis: Cathryn Tighe was last seen at Chaparral High School on February 7, 1983. On March 2, 1983 the victim was discovered in the desert area near Indios and Twain, covered by debris. The parents of the victim had filed a missing persons report when Cathryn failed to return home from school on February 7, 1983. The coroner's office listed the cause of death as manual strangulation. No suspect has ever been identified.
WATCH: News 3 January 10, 2026
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-29567
Victim: Norma Gonzales, 25
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Brownstone Canyon, Red Rock National Recreation Area
Date: Discovered – February 20, 1983
Synopsis: On February 20, 1983, Norma Gonzales' body was discovered by a family four-wheeling in the Red Rock Canyon NRA. Norma was last seen alive in the downtown area of Las Vegas where she lived with her infant daughter. Norma left her infant daughter with a babysitter; Norma had been hired by a local business but never showed for her first day at work. Norma was reported missing on February 17. An autopsy determined Norma died from a gunshot wound.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-25585
Victim: Carol Cecelia Tolan, also known as, Mills
Suspect: Unknown
Location: RV parked at the California Club Hotel and Casino
Date: February 1, 1983
Synopsis: On February 1, 1983, security personnel at the California Club Hotel and Casino attempted to tow a 1973 Pace Arrow RV they believed had been abandoned since January 21, 1983. Because the RV was locked, the tow truck driver forced entry through a side window and discovered the body of a deceased female inside.
An autopsy identified the female as Carol Mills and determined she died from multiple stab wounds to the chest.
The RV was registered in Kingman, Arizona, and homicide detectives traveled there to obtain additional information. Detectives learned Tolan had been married but had left her husband and was traveling in the RV. Her husband reported he had not seen or heard from her and had no further information to provide.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-25568
Victim: Michael D. Swan, also known as Richard Blanco, 30
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Ernie's Bar, Tonopah Highway, Las Vegas, NV
Date: January 31, 1983
Synopsis: On January 31, 1983, at approximately 5:45 p.m., a White male adult who identified himself as Richard Michael Blanco admitted himself into Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital with a gunshot wound to the right rear buttock. He told hospital staff he had been the victim of an attempted robbery and battery with a deadly weapon. A female companion was with him when he arrived.
On February 18, 1983, the male succumbed to his injuries and died at Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital at approximately 11:58 a.m.
An autopsy revealed he died from a gunshot wound to the abdomen which passed through the liver before entering the buttock area.
Homicide detectives identified and interviewed the female who accompanied him at the time of admission. She stated that Michael Swan was sitting in a vehicle with her outside Ernie’s Bar when two Hispanic males approached and attempted to rob them. One suspect was armed with a knife, and the other with a handgun. During the attempted robbery, the female—who was driving—attempted to flee the scene, prompting the armed suspect to fire a single round that struck Swan.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-23431
Victim: Fred Robert Sims, 49
Suspect: Unknown
Location: North curb line of E. Harmon Avenue at Sheppards Drive, Las Vegas, NV
Date: January 21, 1983
Synopsis: On January 21, 1983, at approximately 6:40 p.m., patrol officers responded to a report of a body lying in the roadway near East Harmon Avenue and Sheppards Drive.
Earlier that evening, Sims and his wife had finished dinner at the Denny’s located on Boulder Highway. After Mrs. Sims went to the restroom and briefly spoke with the cashier, she exited the restaurant but was unable to locate her husband. She contacted her son to pick her up. While driving home, they saw Sims lying partially in the roadway, surrounded by several witnesses.
During the meal, another male entered the restaurant, sat at the counter, ordered
food, and later moved to a booth near Sims and his wife. When Sims left the restaurant alone, witnesses observed the male hurriedly pay his bill and follow him outside.
Detectives believe a confrontation occurred outside the Denny’s when the unidentified male attempted to rob Sims. A chase ensued, during which Sims was shot multiple times.
Composite Suspect Sketch
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article January 22, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article January 23, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article April 24, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 83-20856
Victim: Wilfredo Domenech, also known as Dominech, 34
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 112 W. Philadelphia Ave., #4, Las Vegas, NV
Date: January 9, 1983
Synopsis: On January 9, 1983, at approximately 12:15 a.m., LVMPD received a 911 call reporting six gunshots heard in the area and witnesses seeing several people running from the location.
Upon arrival, patrol officers were advised by family members inside the apartment that the victim, Wilfredo Domenech, had been transported by private vehicle to the hospital after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds. Witnesses stated Domenech had been shot inside 112 W. Philadelphia #4. He had been shot in the head and later died from his injuries.
Homicide detectives responded to both scenes. During the investigation, detectives learned several people were inside the apartment at the time of the shooting. The shooting appeared to be related to a narcotics transaction; however, the witnesses were uncooperative and refused to identify the suspect.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles January 10-11, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Sun and Valley Times Articles January 10, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 82-98206
Victim: Cynthia Jo Dane
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Room at the Castaway Hotel
Date: December 23-24, 1982
Synopsis: On December 24, 1982, Cynthia Jo Dane’s father discovered her nude body in a shared room at the Castaway Hotel. Cynthia Jo was last seen alive gambling in several hotels and by her father on December 23, 1982 at 10:00 p.m. It was determined through autopsy, Cynthia Jo had died from multiple stab wounds. Cynthia Jo was also the victim of a robbery.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 82-95828
Victim: Salvatore Accetta
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1750 E. Karen Ave, Apartment 226, Las Vegas, NV
Date: December 8-12, 1982
Synopsis: On December 12, 1982, at approximately 5:30 p.m., a friend of Salvatore Accetta went to his residence after being unable to reach him for four to five days. Upon arrival, he observed both of Accetta’s vehicles parked in their designated spaces and noticed that lights inside the apartment were on. When he approached the front door, he found it partially open.
The friend called out to Accetta several times before entering the apartment. Once inside, he discovered Accetta deceased on the living room floor. He immediately exited the residence and contacted 911.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office revealed that Accetta died from multiple stab wounds to the body.
Homicide Detectives learned the apartment had been ransacked and determined there was no evidence of forcible entry into the residence.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case: 82-92008
Victim: Daniel Glenn Willis, 26
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 4512 Montebello, Las Vegas, NV
Date: November 23, 1982
Synopsis: On November 23, 1982, at approximately 1836 hours, two friends of Daniel Willis arrived at his residence to check on their dog, which Willis was keeping for them since they lived in an apartment. The friends stated the house was dark and believed Willis was not home because all lights were off. One of the friends went to the backyard to look for the dog and discovered the animal missing, with only its collar on the ground. He then noticed the back door was ajar.
After calling out for Willis several times, the friend entered the residence and eventually found Willis lying on the floor of his bedroom, deceased. The witnesses immediately called 911 and waited for police to arrive.
During interviews, Homicide Detectives learned the two friends last saw Willis on November 20, 1982, around noon, and left his residence at approximately 3 p.m. that afternoon. Another witness who lived on the same street told detectives he last saw Willis on November 22, 1982, at approximately 2:15 p.m. He also observed a male near the driveway of Willis’ residence carrying a large box. The male was described as a White male, approximately 35 years old, 6' tall, medium build, wearing a fisherman-style hat and faded blue jeans. Another witness also saw the same male carrying what she believed was a microwave box and placing it in the trunk of a light yellow, newer-model Dodge.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office revealed Willis had been involved in a struggle, as evidenced by abrasions, and died from manual strangulation.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case#: 82-84033
Victim: Mitchell Shaia, 56
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Highway 146 near mile marker 18
Date: October 15-16, 1982
Synopsis: On October 15, 1982, after attending a dinner party with friends, Mitchell Shaia borrowed a friend’s vehicle to drive to the Von’s Supermarket at 2500 East Desert Inn Road for ice cream at approximately 9 p.m. When he did not return within a reasonable time, his friends went to the store, believing he might have experienced car trouble. They located the vehicle Shaia had been driving but could not find him. While in the parking lot, they observed a suspicious vehicle driving in the area without its headlights on.
Shaia was described as a white male wearing a white T-shirt, tan pants, and a tan belt. The vehicle he was driving was a borrowed 1975 Oldsmobile 98, two-door, black over green in color.
The suspicious vehicle seen in the parking lot was described as a light blue, mid-size 1975–1976 Buick four-door sedan with unknown license plates.
On October 16, 1982, at approximately 8:15 a.m., two men discovered the body of a white male lying on Highway 146 near Mile Marker 18. They contacted law enforcement after determining the male was deceased.
An autopsy revealed Shaia died from multiple gunshot wounds to the head.
Homicide Detectives believe Shaia may have been mistakenly kidnapped from the Von’s parking lot due to the fact he was driving a borrowed vehicle and matched the general size of the vehicle’s owner.
READ: LVMPD Press Release Oct. 16, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article Oct. 17, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article Oct. 17, 1982
READ: Valley Times Article Oct. 17, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article Oct. 18, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article Oct. 19, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article Oct. 19, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article Oct. 20, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article Oct. 26, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article Oct. 26, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article Oct. 26, 1982 continued
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article Article continued
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article March 15, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article March 15, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case#: 82-80938
Victim: Michelle Lamantia, 24 (Also known as Tanya Marie Chambers)
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Embankment near Patrick Lane and Lamb Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV
Date: October 1, 1982
Synopsis: On October 1, 1982, at approximately 1:45 p.m., a crew working for the Nevada Power Company discovered the partially nude body of a female at the bottom of an embankment near the intersection of Patrick Lane and Lamb Boulevard, in dense underbrush within the desert area.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office performed an autopsy on October 2, 1982, and determined Lamantia died from manual strangulation.
During the investigation, Homicide Detectives learned Lamantia was originally from the St. Louis, Missouri area and had been away from home for approximately three years. An associate last saw her on the Thursday evening prior to her death. When she did not return home the next day, he began searching for her and eventually contacted police.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case#: 82-76453
Victim: Richard Neal Diamond, 25
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 3642 Boulder Highway, Las Vegas, NV
Date: September 10, 1982
Synopsis: On September 10, 1982, at approximately 9:10 p.m., Richard Neal Diamond was standing near the entrance of the Miracle Mile Mobile Home Park when witnesses reported hearing three gunshots and saw a male fall to the ground.
Witnesses stated a brown or maroon vehicle—possibly a Pontiac Grand Prix—with no license plates and its headlights off was seen fleeing the area immediately after the shooting.
Diamond was wearing a white T-shirt with red trim, Levi jeans, and white tennis shoes.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy and determined Diamond died from gunshot wounds to the chest.
During the investigation, Homicide Detectives learned Diamond had been waiting outside the mobile home park to meet person(s) known to him. Witnesses described the suspects as three Hispanic males; no clothing descriptions were provided.
Detectives also learned Diamond was employed at the Gold Spike Hotel and Casino at the time of his murder.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article Sept. 11-14, 1982
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case#: 82-69028
Victim: Amado Ivan Diaz, 27
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area near the Buffalo Bar, 5408 South Paradise Road, Las Vegas, NV
Date: August 8-9, 1982
Synopsis: Between approximately 10:30 p.m. on August 8, 1982, and 12:45 a.m. on August 9, 1982, the body of a White male adult was discovered lying on the ground in a desert area near the Buffalo Bar by two patrons who were leaving the establishment.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Amado Ivan Diaz. The Coroner determined that Diaz’s cause of death was strangulation. Shortly after the homicide, Diaz’s body was struck by a semi-truck and trailer, which caused additional injuries, including trauma to the head and chest.
The investigation revealed that Diaz had been speaking with two men while playing pool inside the Buffalo Bar earlier in the evening, prior to leaving at approximately 10:45–11:00 p.m. At around 11:15 p.m., the two men also left the bar.
The first man was described as a White male adult, 5’7”–5’8” tall, weighing 165–175 pounds, with a stocky build, reddish-brown hair, a full beard, and a ruddy complexion. The second man was described as a White male adult, approximately 6’ tall, with a thin build, weighing about 150 pounds, and short dark-brown hair.
Witnesses stated they did not see Diaz again after he left the bar, nor did they see the two men who departed shortly after him.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles August 9-10, 1982
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case#: 82-65795
Victim: Ann Marie Conrad, 57
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Lake Mead Recreational Area – Boulder Beach
Date: July 25, 1982
Synopsis: On July 25, 1982, Ann Conrad’s body was found near the rear of the Lake Mead Resort, adjacent to the Boulder Beach area of Lake Mead. She was last seen alive during the evening of July 24, 1982, by her son. An autopsy revealed the victim had died from blunt force trauma and had her throat cut. Her body had been dumped in the area where she was located.
The LVMPD Homicide Section continued their investigation to a point in which there was no new information or leads to follow-up on and the death of Ann Marie Conrad is an unsolved murder at this point.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case#: 82-66769
Victim: Peter Charles Katsapis, 33
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Blue Angel Motel, Room 273, 2110 East Fremont Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between June 28-30, 1982
Synopsis: On Friday, July 30, 1982, at approximately 1:22 a.m., a friend discovered the body of Peter Charles Katsapis inside Room 273 of the Blue Angel Motel, located at 2110 Fremont Street.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined that Katsapis died from perforating stab wounds to the chest. His death was ruled a homicide.
The investigation revealed that Katsapis had recently moved to Las Vegas from Tucson, Arizona, and may have been involved in narcotics activity. Detectives believe the motive for the murder may have been related to money owed. Investigators also learned that several individuals had entered and exited Katsapis’ motel room prior to his death.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case#: 82-59304
Victim: Bennie Marvin Moreno, 29
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Pearson Park area near E Street and McWilliams Avenue, Las Vegas, NV
Date: June 26, 1982
Synopsis: On June 26, 1982, at approximately 9:56 a.m., LVMPD patrol officers responded to a report of a possible deceased male inside a blue station wagon near E Street and McWilliams Avenue. Upon arrival, officers found the vehicle locked but could see the body of a White male lying partially on the floorboard. Blood was visible on the seat and in several areas of the vehicle.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 29-year-old Bennie M. Moreno. Moreno was wearing tan pants, a blue pullover shirt, and brown socks. The Coroner ruled the death a homicide caused by severe blunt force trauma and asphyxia resulting from a crushing injury to the larynx and trachea.
The investigation revealed that Moreno had gone to bed around 10:00 p.m. the night before but later got up and drove his blue station wagon to Henry’s Liquors, approximately one-quarter mile from where his vehicle was later discovered. Detectives believe Moreno intended to purchase narcotics, and that whoever entered his vehicle during the transaction physically attacked and robbed him.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 82-55730
Victim: Bruce Vought, 64
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 300 S. 1st Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Date: Between June 13-14, 1982
Synopsis: On June 14, 1982, at approximately 2:34 p.m., the manager of the Las Vegan Motel, located at 300 S. 1st Street, entered motel rooms 16 and 18, which were connected by an adjoining bathroom.
While cleaning the rooms, she discovered a significant amount of blood on the floor, bed, and bedding. She then checked the shower area and found the occupant of room 16 deceased, wearing checkered pants with suspenders and a torn shirt.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined the cause of death to be multiple stab wounds, with additional blunt force trauma to the head and neck area. The manner of death was ruled a homicide. The victim was identified as 64-year-old Bruce Vought.
Motel records indicated that Vought had rented room 16 and listed his residence as San Diego, California. The investigation revealed that Vought was likely the victim of a robbery.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles June 15, 1982
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 82-54942
Victim: James Kerr, 71
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 207 N. 11th Street, Room 6, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Date: June 7, 1982
Synopsis: On June 7, 1982, at approximately 11:15 a.m., the body of a White male adult was discovered inside Room 6 of the Moonlight Motel, located at 207 N. 11th Street. The victim was deceased, had been tied up, and the room appeared to have been ransacked.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined that the victim, identified as 71-year-old James Kerr, died from asphyxia and had suffered blunt force trauma. His death was ruled a homicide.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned that Kerr had won a Keno ticket at the El Cortez Hotel and Casino the day before his death. Detectives believe Kerr was the victim of a robbery.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 82-54051
Victim: Krista Lee Elliott
Suspect: Unknown WMA, approximately 25 to 30 years at the time of the crime. 5'8" to 5'10", 140 lbs to 165 lbs. Registered using the name Gerry Simms, thought to be false information.
Location: Frontier Hotel
Date: June 2, 1982
Synopsis: On June 2, 1982 a maid at the Frontier Hotel entered room # 2054 for routine cleaning. The maid discovered the victim lying in the bed with a large amount of blood on the bed and sheets. The room was registered to a man who gave a false name and address, using cash. The victim had numerous stab wounds.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 82-47574
Victim: Richard Arlen Raynor, 43
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 4587 E. Lake Mead #18, Las Vegas, NV
Date: May 4, 1982
Synopsis: On May 4, 1981, Richard Raynor's 13-year-old daughter returned home from school to discover her father dead just inside of the front door to their home. The daughter ran to a neighbors screaming for help. Homicide investigators responded to begin the investigation. The cause of death was multiple stab wounds to the back and chest. The home appeared to have been ransacked. Investigators determined that the killing occurred sometime between 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. None of the neighbors heard or saw anything out of the ordinary.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 82-47513
Victim: Laura Marie Cowen, 16
Suspect: Unknown
Location: On Washington Ave., East of Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV
Date: May 4, 1982
Synopsis: On May 4, 1982, at approximately 4:23 a.m., a bus driver had just started his route traveling eastbound on Washington Boulevard when he observed the body of a female lying in the roadway. He contacted 9-1-1 requesting police response.
The victim had numerous abrasions and bruising about the head, neck, and stomach and was pronounced deceased on the scene.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined the victim died of blunt force trauma to the head and manual strangulation. She was later identified as Laura Marie Cowen.
Investigators determined Cowen had ties to New Berlin, Wisconsin and Mohave County, Arizona (Bullhead City area).
The investigation suggests Cowen was rolled from a moving vehicle after she was already deceased on East Washington Avenue.
The victim was transported by unknown person or persons to that location and died as a result of multiple gunshot wounds.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 82-43301
Victim: Hugh T. Dow, 89
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1013 E. Bridger Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: April 10-16, 1982
Synopsis: On Friday, April 16, 1982, at approximately 1:00 p.m., a neighbor went to check on her friend, Hugh Dow, whom she had not seen in several days.
When she knocked on the door, she received no answer. She tried the door handle, which opened freely, and upon looking inside observed that the apartment had been ransacked. She then saw the body of Mr. Dow lying in a pool of blood. She immediately exited the apartment and contacted police.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned from neighbors that Mr. Dow had last been seen or heard from on April 10, 1982.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy and determined Mr. Dow had died from a laceration to the throat and a severed trachea.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Articles April 17-20, 1982
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 82-37051
Victim: Edilberto Benitez, 34
Victim: James Graves, 22
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 235 W. Philadelphia Avenue, Apartment 6, Las Vegas, NV
Date: March 18, 1982
Synopsis: Victim was in Las Vegas attending a Chevron Oil employee's convention. He was last seen at the Library Restaurant located at Las Vegas Blvd. and Sahara after having dinner with fellow business associates around 8pm. At approximately 9:30pm a man driving westbound on Lake Mead Blvd approximately 1 ½ miles east of Mt. Hood Blvd. observed a man's body lying on the side of the road and stopped to further investigate. The citizen then stopped and telephoned the LVMPD to advise of his discovery.
The victim was transported by unknown person or persons to that location and died as a result of multiple gunshot wounds.
READ: Las Vegas Sun March 18, 1982
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal March 23, 1982
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 82-30003
Victim: Burt Henry McMahon
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Victim found in desert area 1 ½ miles east of Mt. Hood on south side of Lake Mead Blvd approximately 10 feet from the roadway.
Date: February 16, 1982
Synopsis: Victim was in Las Vegas attending a Chevron Oil employee's convention. He was last seen at the Library Restaurant located at Las Vegas Blvd. and Sahara after having dinner with fellow business associates around 8pm. At approximately 9:30pm a man driving westbound on Lake Mead Blvd approximately 1 ½ miles east of Mt. Hood Blvd. observed a man's body lying on the side of the road and stopped to further investigate. The citizen then stopped and telephoned the LVMPD to advise of his discovery.
The victim was transported by unknown person or persons to that location and died as a result of multiple gunshot wounds.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 82-20503
Victim: Pedro Miguel Arredondo
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area south of 850 Desert Inn Road, Las Vegas, NV
Date: January 16-19, 1982
Synopsis: On January 19, 1982, at approximately 2:15 p.m., a male walking to work at Sunrise Hospital cut through an empty lot and discovered a deceased body. He continued to his workplace and contacted LVMPD to request a police response.
The victim was identified as Pedro Miguel Arredondo. Based on the scene, it appeared the suspect or suspects attempted to rob him of U.S. currency.
An autopsy by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined that Arredondo died from blunt force injuries to the head.
The investigation revealed Arredondo had been living at the Long Horn Hotel. Detectives contacted the hotel manager, who stated he last saw Arredondo on January 16, 1982, at approximately 7:30 p.m.
Detectives also learned Arredondo had recently argued with two Cuban males and had been struck in the head with an unknown object. He did not file a police report or seek medical treatment. It is unknown if these individuals were involved in his murder.
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article January 20-21, 1982
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 82-20503
Victim: Everett (or Everette) Ray Mullins, 27
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Intersection of McGuire Street and Hoffman Circle, Las Vegas, NV
Date: January 7, 1982
Synopsis: On January 7, 1982, at approximately 1:51 a.m., LVMPD patrol officers observed a cab parked in the intersection of McGuire Street and Hoffman Circle with the back window blown out.
As officers approached, they noted the cab’s engine was still running and discovered the driver lying across the front seat. The driver was deceased.
An autopsy by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined the victim, identified as Everett (or Everette) Ray Mullins, had been shot multiple times in the back of the head. Mullins was working as a cab driver for North Las Vegas Cab Company at the time of his death.
Detectives reviewed the cab’s trip sheet and learned Mullins had last picked up a fare at the Las Vegas Club at Main Street and Fremont Street at approximately 1:31 a.m. He then transported one passenger to the 1500 block of McGuire Street, an apartment complex.
A description of that fare was obtained from a valet at the Las Vegas Club. Detectives canvassed the apartment complex but were unable to locate anyone matching the description.
Suspect Description: Black male adult, approximately 20 years old, about 6’0” tall, slender build with a medium afro hairstyle. Last seen wearing a light blue windbreaker.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article January 7, 1981
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-99583
Victim: Poydras Orlando Page, 20
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 500 Jefferson Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: December 20, 1981
Synopsis: On December 20, 1981, at approximately 7:22 p.m., Poydras Orlando Page was shot in the face during a robbery in the 500 block of Jefferson Street.
Earlier that evening, LVMPD received a 911 call from two victims who reported being robbed near F Street and Jefferson Street. Patrol officers responded and were directed by the victims to the 500 block of Jefferson Street.
Upon arrival, officers discovered that Page had been shot near a stairwell on the ground floor of an apartment complex. He was transported to Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to his injury on December 27, 1981. The Clark County Coroner determined Page died from a single gunshot wound to the head.
Witnesses reported seeing two Black male adults exit a brown station wagon and approach a group of men. One suspect, armed with a handgun, demanded to know the location of marijuana. A witness was forced to the rear of the building, where the second suspect stole his money and watch. Another witness observed the armed suspect shoot Page. Both suspects fled northbound through the complex.
Suspect Descriptions:
-
Suspect #1 (Armed):
-
- Black male adult, approximately 28 years old
- Thin build, thin mustache
- Wearing sunglasses and a floppy-brimmed hat
- Black leather jacket and dark brown pants
- Suspect #2:
- Black male adult, approximately 30 years old
- About 5’8” tall, stocky build
- Wearing black clothing and a small-brimmed hat
- Dark long-sleeve sweater and blue jeans
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article December 21-28, 1981
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-94834
Victim: Willie Curtis Jamerson, 59
Suspect: Two unknown males
Location: 712 W. McWilliams Avenue, Apartment A, Las Vegas, NV
Date: November 29, 1981
Synopsis: On November 29, 1981, Willie Curtis Jamerson was involved in a physical altercation with two unknown males at his residence located at 712 W. McWilliams Avenue, Apartment A. He was later found unresponsive on the floor of his apartment and transported to Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.
A witness described the suspects as follows:
-
Suspect #1: Black male, approximately 30 years old, 5’10” tall, 180 pounds, muscular build with broad shoulders. He was last seen wearing a red and blue plaid long-sleeve shirt, green pants, and alligator shoes.
-
Suspect #2: Black male, approximately 21 years old, 5’8” tall, 140 pounds, slim build. He was last seen wearing a blue denim jacket, gray V-neck sweater, old jeans, and white tennis shoes.
An autopsy determined the cause of death to be strangulation.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Articles November 30 - December 1, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article December 2, 1981
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-94278
Victim: George Asdourain
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 3793 Casa Colorado Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89121
Date: November 27, 1981
Synopsis: On November 27, 1981, at approximately 2:00 p.m., a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier approached a residence in the 3700 block of Casa Colorado to deliver mail. At that time, he observed the body of a white male adult on the ground, bloody and unresponsive, and immediately contacted police.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office revealed the victim died from a gunshot wound to the torso.
The victim was identified as George Asdourain, who lived at the residence. Through the investigation, detectives determined that Asdourain was shot either while attempting to enter or leave his home.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-93622
Victim: Robert Edward Brandt, 56
Suspect: Unknown
Location: U.S. 95 Northbound at mile marker 96 - near the Mt. Charleston turnoff
Date: November 24, 1981
Synopsis: On November 23, 1981, at approximately 10:43 a.m., Robert Edward Brandt was last seen leaving the Fashion Show Mall on the Las Vegas Strip. At the time, he was working in the shipping business.
On November 24, 1981, at approximately 10:55 a.m., Brandt was reported missing to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department by his wife. She told detectives he had last been seen wearing a red velour jacket, dark blue pants, and a gold coin ring.
Later that same day, at approximately 6:35 p.m., Brandt’s vehicle, a 1979 two-door light blue Cadillac, was located on the shoulder of U.S. 95 near mile marker 96. Inside the trunk, detectives discovered Brandt’s body. He had been fatally shot and was the victim of a robbery. U.S. currency, one ring, and a plaque were missing, although other jewelry remained on his person.
The investigation revealed that the last place Brandt was seen alive was near a warehouse in the 4400 block of South Valley View Boulevard, where he was picking up and dropping off shipping materials for his business. Detectives believe he was followed from this location, confronted after leaving his customers, forced into the trunk of his vehicle, and then driven to the area where his car was abandoned. There, he was shot and killed.
REVIEW: Pawn Shop Alert regarding victim's ring
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun November 25, 27, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal November 26, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal November 26, 27, December 9, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal December 6, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal December 6, 1981 (continued from article above)
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal December 7, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal April 17, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-93147
Victim: Douglas Duane Caton, 48
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area near Pabco Road and Hollywood Blvd.
Date: November 18-21, 1981
Synopsis: On November 21, 1981, at approximately 1:00 p.m., an officer conducting routine patrol discovered the body of a white male adult at the bottom of an embankment in the desert area near Pabco Road and
Hollywood Boulevard. The victim was partially wrapped in a moving blanket.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Douglas Duane Caton, from Indiana. An autopsy determined the cause of death was blunt force trauma and a gunshot wound to the head.
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned Caton had been attempting to sell properties in both Indiana and Las Vegas with a business partner. Several other individuals were identified as being connected to the property sales and loans.
Caton was reported missing to LVMPD on November 18, 1981, after he failed to contact his girlfriend.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
CASE #: 81-91752
Victim: Geraldine Bertrand, 44
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Four Queens Hotel and Casino, Room #1009
Date: November 15, 1981
Synopsis: On November 12, 1981, Geraldine Bertrand checked into Room 1009 at the Four Queens Hotel and Casino. She was scheduled to check out on November 15, 1981.
On November 15, 1981, at approximately 9:30 a.m., a bellman for the Four Queens entered Room 1009 and discovered a body partially protruding from beneath the bed. He immediately exited the room and summoned hotel security, who then contacted police.
When Homicide Detectives arrived, they observed the body of Geraldine Bertrand partially under the bed, with the room’s contents scattered. She was partially clothed.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office revealed that Geraldine had been stabbed multiple times after suffering blunt force trauma to the head.
Four Queens security personnel told detectives they observed Geraldine with a white male adult, approximately 24–27 years old, drinking in the casino. She was later seen entering the elevator with the same male around 10:30 p.m. on November 13, 1981. The male was described as approximately 5’11” tall, weighing 155–170 pounds, with dirty blonde hair worn in a ponytail, blonde facial hair, and a chipped left front tooth. He also spoke with a slight southern accent.
Another Four Queens security officer reported seeing both Geraldine and the same male on the 10th floor around 1:00 a.m. on November 14, 1981.
During the investigation, detectives learned that U.S. currency was the only item taken during the murder of Geraldine Bertrand.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
CASE #: 81-88647
Victim: Stanley Jerry Blanco, 35
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert Area, one mile east of Charleston Avenue and Hollywood Blvd.
Date: November 1, 1981
Synopsis: On November 1, 1981, at approximately 3:45 p.m., the body of a white male adult was located in the desert area by a juvenile riding his motorcycle.
The male was identified during autopsy at the Clark County Coroner’s Office as Stanley Jerry Blanco, also known as Jerry Daniel Blanco.
The investigation determined Blanco had been shot multiple times. At the time of his death, he was wearing a brown long-sleeve shirt and blue jeans.
Blanco’s girlfriend reported him missing after her last contact with him on October 30, 1981, at Sam’s Town. She told detectives she dropped him off at his apartment around 5:00 p.m. on that date and had not seen or heard from him since.
Homicide detectives later located the weapon used in the shooting at a pawn shop in Las Vegas. Persons of interest were developed in this case.
In July 1996, suspect Howard Coombs was sentenced to 10 years to life for the murder, along with an additional six years for conspiracy to commit murder. Detectives had originally charged the victim’s fiancé, Lorna D’Venne, in connection with the case; however, those charges were ultimately dismissed.
Detectives believe there is still an outstanding suspect in this case.
READ: Metro Police Press Release March 25, 1993
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun March 26, 1993
READ: Las Vegas Sun March 29, 1993
READ: Las Vegas Sun March 29, 1993 Continued
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal August 5-19, 1993
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal March 3, 1994
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
CASE #: 81-79966
Victim: Brandie Rochelle Wilkins, 19
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert Area, approximately 1/4 mile west of the south entrance of the Silver State Disposal Site
Date: September 25, 1981
Synopsis: On September 25, 1981, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the body of a female adult was discovered in the desert area on the far east end of Vegas Valley Drive, approximately ¼ mile from the south entrance of the Silver State Disposal site.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 19-year-old Brandie Rochelle Wilkins. Her cause of death was determined to be a gunshot wound.
Through the course of the investigation, a person of interest was identified; however, no arrest was made. Wilkins was last seen at the Campus Lounge, located at 101 Grier Drive, Las Vegas.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
CASE #: 81-71974
Victim: Victoria Lana Edwards, 36
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 5812 W. Washington Ave., Apartment A, Las Vegas, NV
Date: August 24-25, 1981
Synopsis: On August 25, 1981, at approximately 1:28 a.m., LVMPD patrol officers observed a large amount of smoke in the area of 5812 West Washington Avenue and responded to investigate. Upon arrival, officers determined the smoke was coming from Apartment A. A witness told officers she had left the apartment at approximately 1:10 a.m. and returned 10–15 minutes later to find heavy smoke.
The Clark County Fire Department responded and extinguished a fire located in the bedroom. Inside the room, they discovered the body of a deceased White female lying face down on the bed.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner identified the victim as Victoria Lana Edwards. The cause of death was determined to be strangulation.
Homicide detectives noted signs of a physical altercation in the living room, including blood spatter, indicating a struggle had occurred prior to the fire being set.
Edwards was last seen alive at the 4 Kegs bar approximately 48 hours before her death.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
CASE #: 81-64607
Victim: Kendall L. Bright, 54
Suspect: Unknown
Location: South Parking Lot, Stardust Hotel and Casino 3000 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV
Date: July 24, 1981
Synopsis: On July 24, 1981, at approximately 9:45 p.m., a Stardust Hotel Security Officer located an ACE cab parked in the south lot near the tennis courts and helipad. The cab’s engine and headlights were on, and the meter was running.
The driver, later identified as Kendall L. Bright, was found slumped over the steering wheel suffering from a gunshot wound.
The investigation revealed Bright had been the victim of a robbery and had likely just picked up a fare, which had not yet been logged on his trip sheet. Detectives believe the suspect was seated in the back seat when they shot Bright in the head.
READ: Press Release July 29, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun, Article July 25-26, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal, Las Vegas Sun, Valley Times Article July 27-31, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article July 28, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article July 31, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article August 8, 1981
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit www.CrimeStoppersOfNV.com
Case #: 81-57755
Victim: #1 Jack Rabinowitsch, 72
Victim: #2 Xenia Rabinowitsch, 72
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 2856 La Casita Ave., Las Vegas, NV
Date: Between June 23, 1981 and June 25, 1981
Synopsis: On June 25, 1981, Jack and Xenia Rabinowitsch were discovered murdered inside their home. Both victims were found face down on the bed with their hands behind their backs. They had been shot and the initial investigation characterized the deaths as an execution. Investigator located several safes, which had been opened, throughout the house. Money, jewelry, and rare coins were still in place. Other items of great value appeared to have gone untouched. One drawer from one of the safes was missing. Relatives indicated that the drawer contained paperwork/documents of unknown origin and/or significance.
The Rabinowitschs were known for their anti-communist stance and assistance to immigrants from the Soviet Union. Las Vegas detectives worked with agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation because of possible connections to other related investigations in other States. The person(s) responsible where never identified.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-53656
Victim: William O. Hutchinson, 54
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Main Street and Bridger Avenue – Loading Dock of LV Transfer & Storage
Date: June 6, 1981
Synopsis: On June 6, 1981, William O. Hutchinson, a 54-year-old male who was partially disabled, was discovered injured in the loading dock area of LV Transfer & Storage, located near Main Street and Bridger Avenue.
A witness found Hutchinson unresponsive and bleeding from the head. He was transported to Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
During a canvass of the area, detectives located Hutchinson’s wallet nearby. It appeared to have been rummaged through, and no U.S. currency was found inside, indicating a robbery had occurred.
Hutchinson was believed to be from the Riverside, California area.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-49188
Victim: Francisco Quinones, 57
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Alleyway behind MidCity Furniture, 501 N Main Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: May 17, 1981
Synopsis: On May 17, 1981, at approximately 4:02 p.m., a witness observed two men in a red 1979–1981 Thunderbird pull into the alleyway behind MidCity Furniture. The men removed a body from the vehicle and fled the scene through the alley.
The witness ran to the nearby Holiday Inn Casino and contacted a security officer, who then notified police.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office later identified the victim as Francisco Quinones. He was wearing a white jacket, khaki shirt, khaki pants, and brown shoes with socks. His death was ruled a homicide caused by a gunshot wound and blunt force trauma to the head.
The suspects were described as follows:
-
A Latin male, approximately 40 years old, with black hair, wearing a blue flowered shirt
-
A White male, approximately 30 years old, 6'1", 175–180 lbs, with dark brown hair, wearing a blue t-shirt and black slacks, and carrying a large-caliber revolver
When the witness tried to get close enough to see the license plate on the vehicle, the suspects noticed him. One of the men pointed a gun in the witness’s direction before the suspects fled the area at a high rate of speed.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-49046
Victim: Edward Henry Helzer, 65
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 417 S Las Vegas Boulevard (Toot’s Bar), Las Vegas, NV
Date: May 16, 1981
Synopsis: On May 16, 1981, at approximately 3:45 a.m., Edward Helzer was the victim of a robbery behind Toot’s Bar, located at 417 S Las Vegas Boulevard. Helzer was approached by two males who asked for help starting their car. When he went to assist them, he was struck in the back of the head.
The suspects stole Helzer’s wallet, which was later found emptied nearby. Helzer did not immediately report the incident and returned home to care for his injuries.
The following day, his wife convinced him to seek medical attention. Helzer was admitted to the hospital due to his head trauma, later fell into a coma, and died from his injuries on June 14, 1986.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article June 18, 1981
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-47425
Victim: Ruben Ferrer Arias Bartolo, 27
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 120 W Philadelphia Avenue, Apartment #4, Las Vegas, NV
Date: May 9, 1981
Synopsis: On May 9, 1981, at approximately 3:06 p.m., LVMPD Officers responded to 120 W Philadelphia Avenue and located a Hispanic male adult lying on the ground in front of Apartment #4.
A witness stated the male, later identified as Ruben Ferrer Arias Bartolo, had exited the apartment clutching his abdomen, saying he had been stabbed and asking for help. The witness called 911, and Bartolo was transported to Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital, where he later died.
The suspect was last seen fleeing the apartment complex on foot.
The investigation revealed Bartolo had been renting a room inside Apartment #4. An argument had occurred between Bartolo and an unknown male, during which Bartolo was stabbed.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-45146
Victim: #1 Edward Ray Lankford, 21
Victim: #2 Jack Lee Walker, 22
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area of El Rancho Hotel Property, near South Las Vegas Boulevard and Sahara Avenue
Date: April 28, 1981
Synopsis: On April 28, 1981, at approximately 10:30 p.m., LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to the west side of South Las Vegas Boulevard, just south of Sahara Avenue, in the desert area formerly known as the El Rancho Hotel Property. Both male victims were found lying on the ground beneath a tree.
An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined both victims died from multiple stab wounds.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-43196
Victim: Kimlee Ellington, 18
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area near the 6600 block of Tropicana Avenue, near Jimmy Durante Boulevard
Date: April 19-20, 1981
Synopsis: On April 20, 1981, at approximately 9:00 a.m., Homicide Detectives responded to the desert area near the 6600 block of Tropicana Avenue after the body of a white female adult was discovered in the trunk of an abandoned vehicle.
The victim was found nude and wrapped in a blanket. Her clothing was also located inside the trunk.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy and identified the victim as 18-year-old Kimlee Ellington. Her parents advised detectives they had last seen her on April 18, 1981.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal, Las Vegas Sun and Valley Times Articles April 21, April 27, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article April 22, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article May 3, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article April 10, 1983
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-39210
Victim: Michael Robert Baker, 23
Suspect: Unknown
Location: North Shore Road, Mile Marker 45.3
Date: April 2, 1981
Synopsis: On Thursday, April 2, 1981, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Homicide Detectives were requested to respond to Lake Mead National Recreation Area after a Park Ranger located a deceased male near Mile Marker 45.3 on North Shore Road. The ranger had been alerted by a family visiting the area who had come across the body while hunting snakes.
The victim had been wrapped up, partially buried, and a flammable liquid had been used in an apparent attempt to set the body on fire.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office later identified the victim as 23-year-old Michael Robert Baker through fingerprint analysis during autopsy.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-39017
Victim: Herbert James Myers, 65
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Corner of 1st Street and Bonneville, Las Vegas, NV
Date: April 2, 1981
Synopsis: At about 2:00 a.m., Herbert Myers was found face down on the sidewalk with a wound to his head. The person who discovered Herbert called for police and medical help. Herbert was transported to the Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital were he died during surgery. It was discovered that Herbert had suffered a blow to the head; the official cause of death was blunt force injury to the head.
Homicide detectives discovered Herbert had just left the Casbah Bar & Hotel where he had been drinking. According to the bartender, Herbert had been bragging about winning a large amount of money when in fact, he had to borrow $5.00 from the bartender. Several items of personal property were found lying on the ground near Herbert's body, along with an object believed to have been used to bludgeon Herbert. There were no known witnesses to the attack.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article April 3, May 29 , 1981
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-31204
Victim: Jessie Flores, 27
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Circle Park at Boston Avenue and Fairfield Street
Date: February 26, 1981
Synopsis: On Thursday, February 26, 1981, at approximately 6:00 p.m., LVMPD Homicide Detectives responded to Circle Park near Boston Avenue and Fairfield Street regarding a male who had been shot. The victim, later identified as 27-year-old Jessie Flores, was transported to Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
Witnesses stated that Flores had been sitting at a table in the park with several other Hispanic males, consuming alcoholic beverages. A male, described as being of Cuban or mixed Black descent, walked by and began taunting the group. An argument broke out between the suspect and Flores. The suspect walked away toward the Forest Lane Apartments but returned approximately 15 minutes later and again confronted the group.
The argument escalated, and the suspect produced a handgun and shot Flores before fleeing northbound on Fairfield Street.
The suspect was described as a dark-skinned Cuban or Black male adult, approximately 5’6” to 5’8” tall, thin build, wearing blue jeans and a straw-style floppy hat. He spoke Spanish and had about two days’ growth of facial hair.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 81-29552
Victim: Arthur Jones, 54
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 336 East Desert Inn Road #494, Las Vegas, NV, 89109
Date: February 19, 1981 at 10:20 p.m.
Synopsis: On February 19, 1981, at approximately 10:20 p.m., LVMPD patrol officers responded to the Bali Hai Hotel at 336 East Desert Inn Road after a night manager reported a disturbance in one of the rooms. A hotel guest had complained about a fight occurring nearby.
When officers arrived and attempted to contact the occupant, there was no response. The night manager eventually opened the door, revealing a ransacked room and the body of a deceased male inside.
The reporting witness told detectives he had spoken with the victim around 8:00 p.m. when they encountered each other in the hallway due to a problem with their doors. At approximately 9:25 p.m., the witness said he heard what sounded like high heels outside and looked out his window. He observed two Black males walking in single file—one of them carrying what appeared to be a chrome revolver behind his back.
The witness then heard a door being forced open, a male voice yelling “No!”, the sounds of a struggle, and a vehicle speeding away.
Hotel records confirmed that 54-year-old Arthur Jones had checked in on February 18, 1981, and was scheduled to check out on February 20. He was visiting Las Vegas from Upland, California, for work.
Jones’ vehicle was recovered the following day near Jacobson Circle in West Las Vegas. An autopsy by the Clark County Coroner determined that Jones died as a result of blunt force trauma and ruled the death a homicide.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article February 20, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article February 21, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article February 22, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article May 15, 1981
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 81-28380
Victim: Martina Christina “Tina” Massberg, 24
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 552 Sierra Vista #33, Las Vegas, NV 89169
Date: Between February 13, 10 p.m. and 9:24 a.m. February 14, 1981
Synopsis: On February 14, 1981, at approximately 9:24 a.m., the body of 24-year-old Martina Christina “Tina” Massberg was discovered inside her apartment. She had been sexually assaulted and strangled. A male caller phoned 9-1-1, stating he had arrived at a friend’s apartment and found her deceased. The caller then disconnected without providing further information.
The investigation revealed Massberg had been living alone in the apartment for about one month. She had recently argued with her boyfriend, though the two did not live together. Witnesses who lived in the complex and knew Massberg reported that they did not hear anything unusual during the evening of February 13.
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article December 22, 1983 and January 19, 1984
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article January 17, 1984
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article January 18, 1984
READ: Las Vegas Magazine July 1984
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 81-27128
Victim: Marva Graham, 29
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 2851 South Decatur Blvd., Apartment #92 Las Vegas, NV 89102
Date: February 9, 1981
Synopsis: On February 9, 1981, at approximately 7:33 p.m., Marva Graham’s boyfriend returned to their residence and discovered Graham deceased on the staircase leading to the upper floor of the apartment. She had been shot once and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Graham’s boyfriend ran to a nearby friend’s home to ask for help. The two armed themselves and searched the apartment while another friend called 911 to request police assistance.
The investigation revealed that Graham may have interrupted a burglary in progress. Detectives noted several items in the apartment were out of place.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 81-26336
Victim: Joseph F. Murray, 31
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 4725 South Valley View, Las Vegas, NV 89103
Date: February 5, 1981, between 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Synopsis: On February 5, 1981, at approximately 5:40 p.m., 31-year-old Joseph Murray dropped off his girlfriend for work at the Sahara Hotel and Casino while driving her black 1979 Chevy Camaro. Afterward, he was expected to proceed to the Mayflower Moving Company on South Valley View Boulevard to wash the vehicle. Murray was also a former employee of the business.
A short time later, witnesses arrived at the Mayflower Moving Company to retrieve items from a storage locker and discovered Murray lying on the ground in the southeast corner of the parking lot. He had been shot multiple times.
The investigation revealed that Murray had likely been the victim of a robbery, as the Chevy Camaro was missing from the scene. Detectives also discovered that the Mayflower Moving Company had been burglarized, with items stolen from storage lockers and a company vehicle key reported missing.
The Clark County Coroner determined that Murray died from multiple gunshot wounds to vital organs and ruled his death a homicide.
Murray’s vehicle was later recovered at the Kings 8 Hotel. A security guard in the area reported seeing two white male adults loitering near the Camaro. One male was described as wearing a tan or salmon-colored down-filled vest, a white shirt, dark glasses, and having dark hair with a medium build. The second male was also medium build, but no clothing description was provided.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 81-26039
Victim: Robert Edward Ripley, 66
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 109 West Boston, Apartment #5, Las Vegas, NV 89102
Date: Between February 1-4, 1981
Synopsis: On February 4, 1981, the Clark County Fire Department received a 911 call from a male who reported finding his friend deceased inside an apartment at 109 West Boston #5. Upon arrival, first responders discovered 66-year-old Robert Edward Ripley lying on the floor with apparent gunshot wounds.
The investigation revealed that Ripley, a known gambler, had been the victim of a robbery. His apartment had been ransacked, and jewelry along with other items had been stolen. Evidence at the scene indicated Ripley was shot during a struggle inside his bedroom.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case#: 80-95469
Victim: Shirley M. Leberman, 40
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 4917 Chantilly Drive, Las Vegas, NV
Date: December 18, 1980
Synopsis: On December 18, 1980, between 11:00 a.m. and 1:52 p.m., Shirley Leberman was shot to death inside her residence located at 4917 Chantilly Drive in Las Vegas.
Leberman had been shot in the head and sexually assaulted.
During the investigation, detectives learned the home had been ransacked and items were missing from the master bedroom.
Leberman had recently moved into the residence with her boyfriend less than two weeks prior.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case#: 80-92548
Victim: Nancy Olivia Huckabey, 18
Suspect: Unknown
Location: U.S. Highway 93 near Mile Marker 56 – desert area
Date: December 5, 1980
Synopsis: On December 5, 1980, at approximately 11:30 a.m., a motorcyclist riding in the desert discovered the body of a female later identified as Nancy Olivia Huckabey.
Huckabey had been attending college in the Chico, California area but was also known to frequent San Jose and San Francisco.
She was driving a white 1972 Ford Pinto station wagon, which was later recovered from the San Francisco airport.
The investigation revealed that Huckabey may have been moving to or traveling through the Las Vegas area with a male friend for work.
READ: Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles December 6-12, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case#: 80-91167
Victim: Sharon L. Messick, AKA Sharon George
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Drainage culvert - 100 yards west of Nellis Blvd. on Stewart Avenue
Date: November 29, 1980
Synopsis: Between November 27 and November 29, 1980, Sharon L. Messick, also known as Sharon George, was murdered at an unknown location. Her body was discovered in a drainage culvert near Nellis Boulevard and Stewart Avenue. At approximately 2:00 p.m. on November 29, children playing in the area found Messick’s body.
An autopsy revealed the cause of death was strangulation by ligature.
The investigation determined that Sharon Messick was last seen alive on September 26, 1980, at the Avis Apartment complex located near 9th Street and Stewart Avenue.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case#: 80-90789
Victim: Mark Edward McCreedy, 20
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Fireside Restaurant, Gowan Road and Rancho Drive, Las Vegas, NV
Date: November 27, 1980
Synopsis: On November 27, 1980, at approximately 5:14 p.m., LVMPD officers responded to the parking lot of the Fireside Restaurant located near Gowan Road and Rancho Drive. Two men had been shot.
Mark McCreedy was pronounced deceased at the scene. Ronnie Lee Douglas, who had also been shot, survived his injuries. According to Douglas, a verbal altercation had occurred between McCreedy and an unknown male on a motorcycle. Both individuals pulled into the parking lot, where the argument escalated. Douglas reported that both McCreedy and the motorcyclist brandished weapons. The motorcyclist shot both men and then fled the scene on a motorcycle in an unknown direction.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-90511
Victim: George A. LaRosa, 54
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 4770 Topaz Street, Apartment #82, Las Vegas, NV
Date: November 26, 1980
Synopsis: On the evening of November 25, 1980, George A. LaRosa returned to his apartment at 4770 Topaz Street, Unit #82, at approximately 9:00 p.m. Upon entering, he was confronted by an unknown male suspect who had broken into the residence. A violent struggle ensued, during which LaRosa was stabbed multiple times, including in the back and on the top of his head.
Evidence indicated the suspect initially attempted to enter through a window but ultimately gained access by manipulating the lock on the back door.
After the attack, LaRosa was able to exit his apartment in an attempt to seek help but collapsed in front of Apartment #80. The residents of that unit called 911, and LaRosa was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after midnight on November 26, 1980.
Through the investigation, detectives learned that LaRosa was the owner of The Huddle Bar, located at 4884 South Eastern Avenue. Witnesses stated LaRosa left the bar around 9:00 p.m. and was not believed to be carrying a significant amount of cash, as he typically made his deposits during the day. Multiple residents of the apartment complex reported hearing yelling and commotion around the time of the incident. Notably, LaRosa was still wearing valuable jewelry and had cash on his person when found, which was not taken by the suspect.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article November 27, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article November 28, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article January 5, 1981
READ: Las Vegas Sun Articles November 27, 1980 and December 21, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-87731
Victim: Eve Marie Provenzano, 15
Suspect: Unknown
Location: I-15 and Craig Road near the old Williams Racetrack, Las Vegas, NV
Date: November 13, 1980
Synopsis: On November 13, 1980, two individuals in the area of the old Williams Racetrack near I-15 and Craig Road discovered the body of a young female lying beneath a mesquite bush. LVMPD officers responded to the scene and located the deceased, who appeared to be a juvenile. She was dressed in a white sweater, blue jeans, white socks, and tennis shoes.
An autopsy tentatively identified the victim as 15-year-old Eve Marie Provenzano, a reported runaway. It was determined that she died from a gunshot wound.
Provenzano was last seen on the evening of November 12, 1980, at approximately 7:00 p.m. at an apartment complex. During the investigation, detectives received information that an unidentified male—possibly of unknown race—had been seen speaking with Provenzano in the downtown Las Vegas area before her death. The male was reportedly driving a red four-door Buick with unknown license plates.
Further investigation revealed that Eve’s father, Robert Provenzano, had been murdered in Las Vegas in 1979. At the time, there were allegations suggesting he may have been involved in criminal activity.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-85493
Victim: Alfred Henderson Jr., 55
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Near the Brown Derby Bar, 418 Jackson Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: November 3, 1980
Synopsis: On November 3, 1980, at approximately 9:00 p.m., LVMPD officers responded to a report of a shooting near the Brown Derby bar, located at 418 Jackson Street. The victim, later identified as 55-year-old Alfred Henderson Jr., was found nearby, having collapsed from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to the hospital and underwent surgery.
Before being taken into surgery, Henderson was able to briefly provide detectives with a description of the suspect and confirm the location of the shooting. He succumbed to his injuries two days later, on November 5, 1980.
Henderson's mother told detectives that he was a disabled U.S. military veteran who had recently relocated to Las Vegas from Oakland, California. The investigation revealed that Henderson had been drinking at the Brown Derby and, at some point after leaving the bar, was shot multiple times. Despite his injuries, he walked away from the scene and flagged down a passing vehicle. The driver was unable to transport him but immediately called 911 to request assistance.
No additional suspect description was provided during the investigation.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article November 7, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-84867
Victim: Francis Carol Terry (aka Carol Terry)
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Approximately 4/10 mile south of Nellis Boulevard on South Las Vegas Boulevard (desert area)
Date: November 1, 1980
Synopsis: On November 1, 1980, at approximately 11:30 a.m., a man searching for rocks in a desert area near South Las Vegas Boulevard contacted LVMPD after discovering the body of a deceased female. Responding officers located the body of a white female, estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old. Evidence indicated the victim had been dragged approximately 40 feet from Powerline Road to the location where she was found.
An autopsy determined the victim died from multiple skull and facial fractures, as well as broken ribs. She was later identified through fingerprints as Francis Carol Terry, also known as Carol Terry. She had recently moved to the Las Vegas area in October 1980 from Loveland, Colorado.
Terry had been reported missing by her daughter after her monthly checks were returned. At the time of her death, she was wearing an orange sweater, blue jeans, and white canvas shoes. Her vehicle, a brown 1971 Ford LTD four-door, was recovered in April 1980.
READ: Las Vegas Sun Article November 4, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal, Las Vegas Sun, Valley Times Articles November 1-2, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article April 15, 1981
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-77313
Victim: Calvin O. Mack, 23
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1524 McGuire Drive, Las Vegas, NV
Date: September 29, 1980
Synopsis: On September 29, 1980, at approximately 12:20 p.m., LVMPD officers responded to the west side of the apartment complex located at 1524 McGuire Drive. Two men had been shot.
Calvin Mack was pronounced deceased at the scene from a single gunshot wound. Randolph Trent, who had also been shot, survived his injuries. According to Trent, both he and Mack were standing outside waiting for relatives and talking when an unknown male suspect rounded the corner and began shooting. Trent stated the suspect yelled, “This is what you get for shooting at my brothers.”
The suspect was described as a Black male, approximately 28 to 29 years old, 5’8” to 5’9” tall, weighing 160 to 170 pounds, and wearing dark pants or jeans.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article September 30, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-73054
Victim: Marjorie Louise Nicholas, 52
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Washington Avenue and E. Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: September 10, 1980
On September 10, 1980, at approximately 4:24 a.m., LVMPD officers were dispatched to the area of E Street and Washington Avenue regarding a female lying near the gutter on the northeast corner.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a deceased White female adult wearing a sleeveless multicolored shirt and blue shorts, with no shoes. Her wrists had been bound.
An autopsy determined that Marjorie L. Nicholas had been beaten and strangled to death.
Through the investigation, detectives learned that Marjorie Nicholas was a transient who occasionally stayed at the Salvation Army. She had been released from jail at approximately 4:00 p.m. on September 9, 1980, and was last seen near the Bingo Club or Slots of Fun.
Detectives believe Marjorie Nicholas was murdered elsewhere, and her body was dumped near the intersection of E. Street and Washington Avenue.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Article September 11-12, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-71091
Victim: Mary K. Trotter, 65
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 521 Maryland Parkway, #B20, Las Vegas, NV
Date: September 2, 1980
Synopsis: On September 2, 1980, between approximately 5:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., coworkers from the California Hotel and Casino found Mary Trotter deceased in her residence.
Witnesses reported that Mary was last seen on September 1, 1980, at approximately 4:00 p.m. when she left work to go home. When she failed to show up for her 7:30 a.m. shift on September 2, her coworkers became concerned and went to her residence. Mary was described as a reliable and punctual employee.
An autopsy determined that Mary Trotter had been strangled to death.
The investigation revealed that Mary had gone to the Sommerset Tavern on the evening of September 1, 1980. She was a regular patron, and according to the bartender, she left the bar at approximately 9:00 p.m. She later called the bartender around 9:30 p.m. to confirm she had arrived home safely, a routine she had followed for several years.
Mary’s apartment had been ransacked, suggesting she was the victim of a burglary or robbery; however, numerous valuable items remained inside. There were no signs of forced entry into the residence.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles, September 3, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal, Las Vegas Sun, NLV Valley Times November, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-65931
Victim: Charles Alexander McCall, 55
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1737 North H. Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: August 9, 1980
Synopsis: On August 9, 1980, Charles McCall was at a friend's residence at 1737 North H Street with his brother. Three Black male adults approached the front door and called for Charles. Witnesses reported that Charles walked to the door, opened it, and was shot multiple times in the chest, resulting in his death at the scene.
Earlier that day, Charles was involved in a fight near Friendly Liquors, as described by several witnesses.
Suspect Descriptions:
- Black male, approximately 30 years old, about 6’0" tall, 150 pounds, wearing a black shirt and blue jeans.
- Black male, approximately 6’0" tall, 150 pounds, wearing a lighter-colored shirt with stripes and a jean cap.
- Black male, approximately 30 years old, heavier than the other two, wearing light blue jeans and a lighter pullover-style shirt.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles August 10, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article November 17, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-64161
Victim: Peggy Sue (Tindell) Craven, 26
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 3120 Meade Ave. (Borlase Plumbing), Las Vegas, NV
Date: August 1, 1980
Synopsis: Peggy Sue Craven, a secretary for Borlase Plumbing Co., was found dead in one of the offices at the business. The initial investigation placed the time of the murder between 3:45 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. An autopsy determined that Peggy died as the result of strangulation and blunt force injury to the chest. There were indications that a sum of cash was missing from the business. Peggy was recently divorced and the mother of two young daughters at the time of the murder. Employees at adjoining businesses were interviewed but no one was able to provide any useful information. The person(s) responsible are still unknown.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal August 2, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal August 11, 1980
READ: Letter from Readers (Eula Tindell)
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article
READ: Las Vegas Sun Letter from Readers May 21, 1983
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal Article
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-61611
Victim: Joseph E. Scavone
Suspect: Two White males (unknown clothing description)
Location: 1055 E. Flamingo Rd. #112, Las Vegas, NV (Vegas Towers)
Synopsis: On July 22, 1980, at approximately 4:52 a.m., Joseph Scavone’s girlfriend returned to their apartment and found him deceased, lying in bed.
An autopsy determined that Joseph had been shot multiple times.
Joseph was a bartender who was training to become a casino dealer. Witnesses reported that there may have been a "contract" out on him due to a dispute involving a car. No signs of forced entry were found, leading detectives to believe that Joseph knew his killer(s) and voluntarily let them inside.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-57835
Victim: Mack Irving Baker
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 1149 South Las Vegas Blvd – behind business
Date: July 4, 1980
An autopsy revealed Mack had been shot in the head multiple times.
Based on evidence at the scene, homicide detectives believe Mack was the victim of a robbery. The investigation revealed Mack was last seen on July 3, 1980, around 8:30 p.m. at Snick’s Bar, where he had one drink. He was seen leaving the bar and walking alone on Fourth Street. Another witness stated Mack was last seen at Desert Inn Liquors immediately prior to his death. He left on foot at approximately 12:00 a.m., walking toward Toot’s Bar in the 400 block of South Las Vegas Blvd.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-68772
Victim: Calvin Smith Thomas, 23
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Brown Derby Club, 1308 North D Street, Las Vegas, NV
Date: June 22, 1980
Synopsis: On June 22, 1980, at approximately 1:50 p.m., Calvin Smith Thomas was transported by ambulance to Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital after suffering a gunshot wound.
Calvin succumbed to his injuries on June 23, 1980. An autopsy determined the cause of death was a gunshot wound, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide.
According to witnesses at the scene, Calvin had been involved in an argument with the suspect inside the Brown Derby Club prior to the shooting. The suspect was described as a Black male, approximately 30 years old, 6'2" tall, weighing around 200 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. At the time of the incident, the suspect was wearing tan pants and a yellow shirt. He was last seen driving a blue, two-tone small vehicle with California license plates.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-54977
Victim: Sydney Keith Tarbett, 24
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 2112 Western Ave., Las Vegas, NV Troubadour Club
Date: June 21, 1980
Synopsis: On June 20, 1980, at approximately 11:53 p.m., the LVMPD Communications Center received a call from an unknown individual reporting a shooting in the parking lot of the Troubadour Club.
Responding officers arrived on the scene and located a male, later identified as Sydney Keith Tarbett, lying on the ground while bystanders attempted CPR. Tarbett was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The Clark County Coroner’s Office determined his cause of death to be a single gunshot wound to the chest.
Witness statements indicate that two male suspects were in a primer gray or dirty-colored vehicle with a rear spoiler and oversized tires. The vehicle pulled up alongside Tarbett in the parking lot, and a brief argument occurred. As Tarbett approached the passenger side, the passenger fired one shot before the suspects fled the area at a high rate of speed.
The suspects are described as follows:
Driver: White male adult with longer hair, slightly curled.
Passenger (shooter): White male adult, approximately 25 years old, with long dark brown hair and a mustache extending below his lips.
READ: Las Vegas Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles June 22, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-53636
Victim: Francis A. Mezapelle, 56
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area, approximately 6/10 of a mile from the 6400 block of North Jones Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV
Date: June 11-23, 1980
Synopsis: On June 23, 1980, at approximately 9:30 p.m., the remains of a male were discovered in a trash dumping area in the desert. The victim was later identified as Francis A. Mezapelle, who had been shot in the chest.
The investigation revealed that Francis, also known as Frank, traveled with his son to Las Vegas from Sterling Heights, Michigan, to celebrate his son’s 21st birthday on June 9, 1980. The pair had reservations at the Circus Circus Hotel and Casino.
On June 11, 1980, at approximately 1:00–1:30 p.m., Frank accidentally locked his keys in his rental car. A rental car company employee arrived to assist him, after which Frank was seen walking away from the vehicle in the parking lot, carrying a small brown bag. This was the last time Frank was seen alive by friends or family.
Later that evening, at approximately 8:00 p.m., an LVMPD patrol officer received a call from an officer in Michigan. The caller expressed concern about his father-in-law, Frank, who had not been seen or heard from, which was unusual behavior. Investigators learned that Frank had left the hotel to buy orange juice for his ill son, who was resting in their hotel room, but Frank never returned.
Officers located the rental car in the Circus Circus parking lot. The keys had been placed back in the ignition, and a light layer of dust covered the vehicle. A missing person report was filed at that time.
READ: Review Journal Article June 26, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun June 25 and July 11, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-54199
Victim: Shauna Lee Urbain, 17
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Desert area west of Sahara Ave. and Tenaya Way, Las Vegas, NV
Date: June 17, 1980
Synopsis: On June 17, 1980, at approximately 7:25 am, a Clark County Engineer was working on an encroachment in the area of West Sahara Avenue and Tenaya Way when he noticed what he initially thought was a mannequin in the desert area where a large amount of trash had been dumped.
Upon closer inspection, the witness stated he realized the mannequin was a body and immediately left the area to go to a 7-11 and call police.
LVMPD Homicide Detectives were requested to the scene once it was determined the female was deceased, as well as the Clark County Coroner.
An autopsy conducted the following day by the Clark County Coroner revealed the female had been stabbed multiple times and was identified as 16 year old Shauna Lee Urbain, who had been a walk away from Child Haven approximately one year prior.
It was determined from the investigation Shauna had been murdered at an unknown location and dumped in the desert area.
READ: Review Journal and Las Vegas Sun Articles June 18-21, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Case #: 80-41926
Victim: Philip Michael Favata
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Across the street from the Detour Inn, near Harrison Drive and Tropicana Avenue, Las Vegas, NV
Date: April 21, 1980
Synopsis: On April 21, 1980, at approximately 12:20 a.m., detectives responded to the area of Harrison Drive and Tropicana Avenue, where they discovered the body of a White male adult lying on the ground. The victim appeared to have been shot.
A witness reported hearing an argument between two males shortly before a gunshot. The dispute was said to be over a parking space. The victim was reportedly driving a gold Cadillac, while the suspect was believed to be driving a dark-colored Datsun 280Z with a louvered rear window.
Several patrons at the nearby Detour Inn heard the gunshots and looked outside, observing the victim lying on the ground. When detectives arrived, they noted that the victim was still holding his car keys.
An autopsy positively identified the victim as Philip Michael Favata. The Clark County Coroner determined that Philip died from a gunshot wound to the chest.
READ: Review Journal, Las Vegas Sun Articles April 5-6, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun and Review Journal Articles April 22, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 80-39384
Victim: Frank R. Carlson, 66
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Calville Bay Motor Home Park
Date: April 7-9, 1980
Synopsis: Between April 7, 1980, at approximately 5:30 p.m., and April 9, 1980, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Frank R. Carlson was murdered in his residence at Calville Bay RV Park, site #71.
A neighbor and close friend last saw Frank at the marina office around 3:30 p.m. on April 7. She recalled that Frank was asking if she knew anyone who could take his nephew and his friend into the Las Vegas area.
On the evening of April 8, around 8:30 p.m., the same neighbor saw Frank’s dog running loose in the park. Concerned, she retrieved the dog and used a key Frank had given her to enter his locked residence. She noticed a foul odor but did not see anything unusual. She noted the bathroom light was on, and the bedroom door was closed.
On April 9, around 7:00 p.m., the neighbor returned from Las Vegas and again checked on Frank after hearing from another neighbor that he had not been seen all day. Upon entering the residence, she turned on the lights and called out for Frank. While moving through the home, she noticed what appeared to be blood on a sock. When she opened the bedroom door, she found the room ransacked and Frank's body lying on the bed. The neighbor immediately exited the residence and called for help.
Witnesses within the RV park reported seeing Frank with two younger males during the time frame in question. Frank identified them as his nephews from the Los Angeles, California area. It was well-known within the park that Frank was a friendly individual who made friends easily and was known to openly discuss his financial situation. He had recently mentioned having approximately $4,000 in cash in his residence, which was later found to be missing.
The two males seen with Frank were described as follows:
Male 1: White male, 24–25 years old, with dark wavy hair, dark eyes, possibly Hispanic or Puerto Rican. Approximately 5'6"–5'7" tall, with broad shoulders, clean-shaven, wearing dark slacks and a blue windbreaker.
Male 2: White male, 24–25 years old, with light dirty blonde wavy hair. Approximately 5'9"–5'11" tall, with a slender build, wearing light slacks and a beige windbreaker.
A composite sketch of the suspects was completed. See the sketch below.
An autopsy revealed Frank had been stabbed multiple times and succumbed to his injuries.
READ: Las Vegas Sun and Review Journal articles April 10, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun article April 11, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 80-38240
Victim: Nicholas "Nicky" Costanza, 27
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Lake Mead Recreation Area- North Shore Road
Date: April 4, 1980
Synopsis: On April 4, 1980, at approximately 3:45 p.m., a witness, a Nellis Air Force Base military member, was in the area of Lake Mead Drive and North Shore Road. The witness had been to the same location on April 2, 1980, where they observed a 1978 Oldsmobile approximately 300 feet off North Shore Road, stuck in a 25-foot ravine.
On April 2, the witness searched the vehicle to check if anyone was injured inside. After locating the registration, they identified the vehicle’s owner as Nicholas Costanza. The witness attempted to contact Nicholas by phone to inform him of the vehicle's location but was unable to reach him. Instead, they spoke with a man who identified himself as Nicholas’ father. Nicholas’ father stated he did not know where Nicholas was or why the vehicle was in a ravine.
When the witness returned to the scene on April 4 with a friend, they found the car still in the ravine, but it had been ransacked. While going through the vehicle’s contents, they discovered the body of a White male in the trunk. The victim was later positively identified as Nicholas “Nicky” Costanza. An autopsy completed by the Clark County Coroner's Office revealed Nicholas had been shot.
READ: Review Journal, Las Vegas Sun Articles April 5-6, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 80-36555
Victim: Mohand Saddek Behloul, 29
Suspect: Unknown
Location:1973 Gerlach Drive, Unit #284, Las Vegas, NV
Date: March 27, 1980
Synopsis: On March 27, 1980, at approximately 8:40 p.m., Mohand Saddek Behloul returned to his residence after attending classes at Clark County Community College. While standing in front of his apartment door, he was shot once. Witnesses reported that the shot appeared to come from the direction of the parking lot.
Behloul’s wife, who was inside the apartment at the time, told police she heard a gunshot followed by a scream. When she opened the door, she found her husband bleeding. The Behloul family, originally from Algeria, had been living in the United States for approximately 18 months.
During the investigation, Behloul’s wife stated that he had no known enemies and was not involved in politics.
Further inquiry revealed the possibility of a prior altercation during a traffic incident. Investigators discovered damage to the rear door of Behloul’s vehicle, which his wife had not previously noticed. On his way home from school, Behloul had stopped at an unidentified grocery store and was carrying \bread, cheese, and other items.
READ: Las Vegas Sun and Review Journal articles March 29, 1980
READ: Review Journal article March 28, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun article April 2, 1980
READ: Review Journal article April 13, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 80-32681
Victim: Mari Beth DeVitte, 21
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Blue Diamon Road (SR 160) L-Bar-M Road 5 miles west
Date: March 23, 1980
Synopsis: On March 8, 1980, Mari Beth DeVitte was reported missing by her roommate after 2she failed to return home. According to her roommate, Mari Beth had left the Troubadour nightclub at Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino with an unknown male. A composite sketch of the suspect was created, shown below.
On March 23, 1980, at approximately 1:30 p.m., Mari Beth’s body was discovered in a desert area near Blue Diamond Road, about five miles west of L-Bar-M Road. A local rancher’s dog had returned home carrying personal items belonging to a female, prompting the rancher to contact LVMPD. Shortly afterward, an aerial search led to the discovery of Mari Beth’s remains.
READ: Valley Times, Las Vegas Sun, Review Journal articles May 8-12, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun article March 29, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun article March 27, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun article undated
READ: Las Vegas Sun article March 26, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun and Review Journal article March 24, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun undated article
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 80-32658
Victim: George Edward Ballan
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Blue Diamon Road (SR 160), Mile Marker 6
Date: March 11, 1980
Synopsis: On March 11, 1980, at approximately 3:00 a.m., the body of George Edward Ballan was discovered inside his 1978 beige and brown Cadillac. The vehicle was parked approximately 41 feet off the north side of Blue Diamond Road at mile marker 6. A passerby noticed the car and contacted police.
George Ballan, a 55-year-old Las Vegas businessman, owned and operated Ballan’s Custom Tailor Shop at the time of his death.
When the vehicle was located, its engine was still running, and the windshield wipers were operating. An autopsy later determined that George Ballan died from blunt force trauma and strangulation.
READ: Las Vegas Sun and Review Journal article April 3, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 80-28149
Victim: Lloyd and Gladys Gannon
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Plaza Hotel RV area
Date: February 1-19, 1980
Synopsis: On January 28, 1980, Lloyd and Gladys Gannon arrived in Las Vegas from Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, and parked their motorhome in the Union Plaza Hotel RV area. The Gannons were frequent visitors to Las Vegas.
On February 19, 1980, Union Plaza Security personnel discovered the bodies of Lloyd and Gladys Gannon inside their motorhome. The RV appeared to be under maintenance, as the hood was open and hoses were missing from the engine.
Inside the motorhome, which had been ransacked, evidence suggested a struggle had taken place. Investigators determined that the Gannons had been victims of a robbery and were subsequently murdered.
An autopsy revealed that both Lloyd and Gladys Gannon died from strangulation and blunt force trauma.
READ: Las Vegas Sun article March 30, 1980
READ: Review Journal article February 20, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun article February 20, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 80-27868
Victim: David Holder
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Casino Center Off Ramp and US 95 - Las Vegas, NV
Date: February 17, 1980
Synopsis: On February 18, 1980, at approximately 3:40 p.m., the body of David Elton Holder was discovered near the US 95 Casino Center off-ramp. A passerby walking in the area found the body in the brush off the roadway and contacted police.
The investigation determined that David was likely living in the area and sleeping in a cardboard box at the time of the attack. Records indicated that David was in poor health, having been released from Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital on February 14, 1980, after suffering a heart attack.
An autopsy revealed that David had been stabbed multiple times and died as a result of his injuries.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 80-23667
Victim: Conway "Sonny" Day
Suspect: Unknown
Location: 3350 Daisey Apartment #18, Las Vegas, NV
Date: January 29-30, 1980
Synopsis: On January 30, 1980, at approximately 11:50 a.m., Conway E. Day was discovered deceased in his residence by his ex-wife. She had attempted to contact him multiple times by phone without success.
Upon arriving at Conway’s apartment, she observed his red and white Cadillac parked in its designated spot. After knocking on the door several times and receiving no response, she tried the door handle and found it unlocked. Upon entering the apartment, she found Conway lying on the living room floor, deceased. She immediately called 911 to report the incident.
Detectives found no signs of forced entry into the residence.
Witnesses described Conway as a gambler who was known to make cash loans to various individuals.
An autopsy revealed that Conway died from blunt force trauma to the head.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com
Case #: 80-23436
Victim: Archie Kay
Suspect: Unknown
Location: Moapa Indian Reservation- Residence
Date: January 29-30, 1980
Synopsis: On January 29, 1980, at approximately 12:40 PM, a welfare check was conducted at the residence of 88-year-old Archie Kay by his son and LVMPD patrol officers. Archie was found deceased on the floor of his home with injuries to his head and chest.
Archie’s son had visited the residence the previous day and found the house secure but noticed his father’s vehicle was missing. Believing his father might have gone elsewhere, he left. Concerned after another day passed, he returned on January 29 and requested LVMPD officers to assist in gaining entry. Forced entry was made, and Archie’s body was discovered.
Archie’s vehicle was later recovered near 1st Street and Stewart Avenue in Las Vegas, NV.
During the investigation, several people were interviewed about a White male adult and a White female adult hitchhiking in the area and spending time with Archie in the days leading up to his death.
The female was described as 20–25 years old, tall with long dirty brown hair, a heavy build, and wearing round glasses. A composite sketch of the female was generated, shown below.
The male was described as 25–40 years old, tall and thin, with medium blonde hair, wearing a brown hat, Levi jeans, and a Levi jacket.
READ: Review Journal article January 30, 1980
READ: Las Vegas Sun and Review Journal articles January 30-31, 1980 and February 1, 1980
READ: Review Journal article January 31, 1980
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at (702) 828-3521. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit crimestoppersofnv.com