After close to 40 years, the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) has announced a resolution to the 1985 murder case of 18-year-old Christine Gallegos. According to SLCPD, SLCPD Chief Brian Redd said, "This case highlights the determination of our detectives and the progress of forensic technology." He stated that while the find does not bring back a loved one, there is a semblance of closure for the family, who were informed of the development.
The persistence of the SLCPD Homicide Squad, coupled with advancements in forensic science, led to the conclusion of this long-unsolved mystery. Gallegos' body was discovered on May 16, 1985, near what was then known as Dirk's Field. The investigation into her murder witnessed her had suffered a brutal attack; she had been beaten, sexually assaulted, and shot to death. Despite previous exhaustive efforts and forensic tests, no leads were found, and the case gradually went cold.
In light of new forensic techniques and support from Utah's Cold Case Review Board (CCRB) and the Utah state crime lab, detectives were able to employ advanced DNA analysis conducted by Othram Labs, with funding through the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) grant. The break in the case came when investigators used Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) to identify Ricky Lee Stallworth, an airman at Hill Air Force Base during the time of the homicide, as the probable suspect.
Chief Redd also emphasized their commitment to supporting victims' families and to making sure they know we will never stop seeking justice. During the investigation, a familial DNA sample helped to confirm Stallworth's involvement, although he had already passed away of natural causes in July 2023, precluding any possibility of arrest or interrogation. The SLCPD's resolve in cracking this case has been a testament to their dedication to cold case work and the importance of partnerships within the forensic science community.
