Murder of Cynthia Gastelle

Cynthia Gastelle

Portrait of Gastelle
Born Cynthia Joan Gastelle
Maryland, United States
Status Remains identified after 32 years
Died c. April 1980 (aged 18)
Prince William County, Virginia
Cause of death Homicide by stabbing
Body discovered February 1982
Known for Unidentified victim of homicide

Cynthia Joan Gastelle was a formely unidentified American murder victim who disappeared on April 3, 1980. Her body was found two years later but remained unidentified for 30 years before matching of mitochondrial DNA entered into the national DNA database provided its identity.

Circumstances

Cynthia was last seen heading to a job interview at a deli in Takoma Park. She had left home around 10:30 and had boarded a Ride On bus to Silver Spring according to her brother Peter Gastelle.[1] Cynthia had run away twice before so her family waited a few days before reporting her missing.[2]

Cynthia's skeletal remains were found on February 12, 1982[3] on Bull Run Mountain in Haymarket, Viriginia; they were located in a secluded wooded area.[1]

Identification

In 2001 DNA from Cynthia's relatives were entered into the national DNA database. It was revealed in June 2012 that a match had been made.[1]

References

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