After two decades of investigative silence, a breakthrough in a cold case has seen the arrest of Ricky Lee Trader for the murder of 28-year-old Theresa Romano in Henderson. Romano's body was discovered on September 4, 2003, in her home on Gold Street, a sight that bespoke violence and a premature end to what should have been a long life. The case simmered on the back burner until fresh DNA evidence linked Trader to the crime scene, prompting his apprehension in Reno and subsequent extradition to Southern Nevada.
The unraveling of this long-standing mystery began anew when the Cold Case Unit expanded its efforts, employing updated DNA testing techniques to conclusively connect Trader to the homicide. As reported by FOX5 Vegas, the DNA match was made to finger nail clippings and an undergarment swab, with both samples containing genetic material from Romano and Trader. These key pieces of evidence were enough to narrowly tie the suspect to the act, leading to his arrest on July 16.
The warrant disclosed by the Henderson Police Department illustrated a grim tableau: Theresa Romano was found face down, her body bearing the brunt of a brutal assault. A victim sustained at least one attempt to strangle her and over the course of the investigation, a variety of items including a lamp, cans of soda, and blades of figure skates were tested for forensic evidence, per the detailed description provided by News 3 LV. Trader's fingerprints were discovered in 2004, yet it took two further decades to establish a DNA link.
Trader's denial of the allegations has been unwavering. When presented with the updated DNA report, Trader downplayed the findings, attributing them to innocuous contact—he "had a soda in the house," as he rationalized to police. With Trader's history involving drugs and a previous conviction for the murder of Robert Wittwer, this case prompts us to confront once more the harsh realities of violent crime's lingering shadow. Despite his claims of innocence and attempts to discredit witness Sherry Wright's statements, police have moved forward with their case. Trader is currently detained at the Henderson Detention Center, and is scheduled for a hearing set to take place today, July 25, as reported by FOX5 Vegas.
With the arrest, Henderson Police have delivered a semblance of closure to a case that has languished in uncertainty for too long. The department recognizes the collective endeavor that has breathed new life into the resolve to find justice, highlighting the joint efforts of their analysts, intel unit, the Reno office of Northern Nevada Parole and Probation, and cooperation from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Forensic DNA Laboratory. As quoted by News3 LV, "This investigation involved the painstaking collaborative efforts" from multiple agencies, culminating in Trader's capture. For those with knowledge of the case, authorities continue to welcome information at 702-267-4911 or through the Crime Stoppers anonymous line at 702-385-5555.
