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Fisherman Linked to Cold-Case Homicides in Virginia from the 1980s

A local angler who passed away in 2017 has recently been connected to three unsolved homicides in Virginia during the 1980s. Among these cases are two of the infamous “Colonial Parkway Murders,” a series of unresolved slayings of couples. Law enforcement officials made this announcement on Monday, shedding light on the potential involvement of Alan W. Wilmer Sr. in these crimes.

Virginia State Police Reveal Suspect’s Identity

Virginia State Police have identified the suspect as Alan W. Wilmer Sr., though they have not disclosed the specific details linking him to the murders which took place in 1987 and 1989. However, authorities have made it clear that if Wilmer were alive today, he would face charges. The breakthrough in the case came as a result of revisiting witness statements and evidence using the cold case philosophy, which proved to be a time-consuming yet successful approach, according to Corinne Geller, a spokesperson for the Virginia State Police.

Obtaining DNA Evidence After the Suspect’s death

Investigators legally obtained Wilmer’s DNA after his death. As he was not a convicted felon, his DNA was not present in any law enforcement databases. It is worth noting that two of the three victims were sexually assaulted, adding a significant layer of complexity to the investigations.

Unraveling the Colonial Parkway Murders

The “Colonial Parkway Murders” encompassed the deaths of three couples and the presumed death of a fourth couple, whose bodies were never found. These chilling crimes occurred between 1986 and 1989 in the vicinity of a scenic drive connecting Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown in southeastern Virginia.

Details of the 1987 Double Homicide

In 1987, the bodies of David Knobling, 20, and Robin Edwards, 14, were discovered with fatal gunshot wounds near the south bank of the James River in Isle of Wight County. Although no forensic or physical evidence currently links this double homicide to the others, authorities are actively investigating all cases.

Victims’ Families Express Gratitude and Relief

Geller read a joint statement from the Knobling and Edwards families during the press conference. The families expressed gratitude towards the investigating law enforcement agencies for their tireless efforts. The statement also highlighted the relief and sense of justice the families now feel, knowing that the suspect can no longer harm others. However, they acknowledged that many unanswered questions would remain due to Wilmer’s death.

Additional Homicide Case from 1989

Teresa Lynn Spaw Howell, 29, was another victim connected to Wilmer. She was found strangled in 1989 in the city of Hampton, though her case is not directly linked to the Colonial Parkway murders. Howell’s body was discovered at a construction site approximately 11 miles away from where Knobling and Edwards were found two years prior. She was last seen outside a popular nightclub.

Family’s Statement on the 1989 Homicide

Hampton Police Captain Rebecca Warren shared a statement from Howell’s family, expressing their gratitude towards investigators. The family acknowledged the closure that has been provided after 34 years of seeking answers. However, they emphasized that nothing will bring back Terry and that her absence has left an indescribable void over the years.

Investigation Continues and Public Assistance is Encouraged

Wilmer, who passed away at the age of 63, was known by the nickname “Pokey” and drove a blue 1966 Dodge Fargo pickup truck with the license plate “EM-RAW.” He owned a small fishing boat called “the Denni Wade” and made a living through clamming and oystering. He also operated a small business named “Better Tree Service.” Investigators are actively pursuing leads in the other killings and have not ruled out Wilmer’s potential involvement. They are reconstructing his movements and interactions with others throughout his life.

Appeal for Information

Brian Dugan, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s field office in Norfolk, appealed to anyone who had knowledge of Wilmer to come forward. He acknowledged that relationships and loyalties change over time, as do people and their perspectives. Any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could contribute to solving these cold-case homicides.

Ben Finley, The Associated Press

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