Cold Case Cracked: New Technology Solves 20-Year-Old Homicide

In a momentous development, a longstanding homicide case in Reading, Pennsylvania has finally been resolved. The use of new technology has led to the resolution of the case of Cynthia Baver, who was tragically killed more than 20 years ago in 2001.

During a statement issued by the Berks County District Attorney’s office, it was revealed that DNA evidence played a crucial role in identifying the individual responsible for Baver’s death. “No one truly forgot about this case, we simply lacked the evidence,” stated John Adams, the district attorney.

The breakthrough came in the form of a DNA match, leading authorities to 62-year-old Timothy Bernard, the victim’s next-door neighbour. The crime occurred in April 2001, when Reading police discovered Baver unconscious in a row home on the 1100 block of North 10th Street. She had been brutally stabbed, and a cord was tied around her neck.

Despite substantial forensic evidence at the scene, including blood found on the breezeway and window connecting to Bernard’s house, the case remained unsolved for two decades. However, with the assistance of new technology, investigators were able to submit blood samples for DNA profiling, resulting in a match to Bernard.

Once the match was confirmed, Bernard consented to provide his own DNA, corroborating the findings. As a result, he has been charged with first- and third-degree homicide, aggravated assault, and robbery, and is currently being held in Berks County prison without bail.

After 22 years of uncertainty, Baver’s family expressed their relief and gratitude following the resolution of the case. “I think that’s the other thing that kind of kept us going for us too, knowing that we had some of that evidence and hoping that one day, technology would advance, science would advance and we’d actually be able to use that to solve something like this,” shared Crystal Baver, the victim’s niece.

Authorities had long suspected Bernard, but lacked the necessary probable cause to make an arrest until the emergence of the DNA evidence. The successful resolution of this case serves as a testament to the relentless efforts of law enforcement and the enduring hope of the victim’s loved ones.

In conclusion, the application of innovative technology has played a pivotal role in providing closure to a longstanding cold case. The use of DNA evidence has not only brought justice to Cynthia Baver and her family after more than two decades, but has also highlighted the potential of modern advancements in forensic science to solve even the most challenging of cases.