Anne Arundel County, Maryland – Investigators have made a breakthrough in a decades-old cold case involving the murder of 16-year-old Pamela Lynn Conyers in central Maryland in 1970. After more than 50 years of investigation, a second suspect in the killing has been identified, according to Anne Arundel County Police Chief Amal Awad.
The newly identified suspect, Donald Willard, 74, was pinpointed through a combination of genetic genealogy and traditional investigative techniques. Both Willard and the initial suspect, Forrest Clyde Williams, have passed away without facing charges in connection to Pamela’s death. There is no current evidence suggesting a prior relationship between the two suspects or any connection to Pamela before her tragic demise.
Pamela, a high school student, disappeared on October 16, 1970, after running an errand for her mother at a local mall. Her abandoned car was discovered three days later in a wooded area, and her lifeless body was found nearby the following day. The medical examiner determined her cause of death to be asphyxiation due to strangulation, ruling her death as a homicide.
The FBI’s assistance in the case proved pivotal, using genetic genealogy to trace relatives of the suspects and ultimately leading to the identification of Williams and Willard. This innovative investigative technology has been increasingly instrumental in resolving cold cases in recent years, narrowing down lists of potential suspects for law enforcement agencies.
Despite the identification of the suspects, the full circumstances surrounding Pamela’s murder remain unclear. Authorities are now appealing to the public for any additional information that could shed light on the case, potentially uncovering links to other crimes that the suspects may have been involved in.
Police spokesperson Justin Mulcahy encourages individuals who may have interacted with the suspects in the past to come forward and share their experiences. Over the years, reluctance to provide information due to relationships with the suspects or concerns for personal safety may have hindered the progression of the investigation. Now is the time for individuals with pertinent information to step forward and assist in bringing closure to Pamela’s family and friends.
As the case continues to evolve, investigators are determined to unravel the mystery surrounding Pamela’s tragic death and seek justice for the victim. The development marks a significant milestone in a long-standing investigation, offering hope for answers and closure after more than five decades of uncertainty.