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DNA Technology Solves 1994 Austin Cold Case, Suspect Commits Suicide

Advancements in DNA forensics led to the identification of a suspect in a nearly 30-year-old murder case, who then took his own life before arrest.

While police can now identify the man who they believe killed Bert Allen Mann in his South Austin home in 1994, police Sgt. Melanie Rodriguez said of Mann's family, "I don't know if any of those answers would ever be sufficient for their grief."
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Overview

  • After nearly 30 years, DNA forensics identified Kenneth Wayne Robbins as the suspect in the 1994 murder of Bert Allen Mann in Austin, Texas.
  • Robbins, a long-haul truck driver, was found dead by suicide in his truck in Weatherford, Texas, days after police obtained his DNA.
  • Over 20 detectives worked on the case over the years, with the breakthrough coming from genetic genealogy using blood found at the crime scene.
  • The victim's family expressed mixed feelings, relieved to have an answer but left with unanswered questions regarding the motive.
  • The case highlights the impact of advancements in DNA technology on solving cold cases.