RENO, Nev. (KOLO) – The Nevada State Police Investigation Division, with the assistance of the Washoe County Forensic Investigation Section, has identified the person responsible for the 1979 homicide of Edgar Anders near Fallon, according to a Saturday, June 6, agency news release.
Investigators said renewed efforts and advances in forensic technology led detectives to determine that Christopher Marvin Fox was responsible for Anders’ death, according to the Nevada State Police release.
Authorities said Fox died in 2022 and therefore cannot be prosecuted.
However, based on the evidence developed during the investigation, the case was presented to the Churchill County District Attorney’s Office, which concluded that Fox would have been charged with open murder.
This case originated from a request for assistance from the Churchill County Sheriff’s Office.
On April 24, 1979, a Southern Pacific Railroad work crew discovered the body of Edgar Anders about 22 miles north of Fallon near U.S. Highway 95.
Investigators determined Anders died as a result of a stab wound, the release said.
Detectives found evidence of a violent struggle near the victim, including bloodstains, personal items, and a partial footprint not believed to belong to Anders, according to law enforcement.
Evidence at the scene also indicated a vehicle fled the area following the incident, the release said.
Anders’ vehicle was later recovered in Sacramento.
Preservation of original evidence collected in 1979 proved critical to the investigation.
Through renewed investigative efforts, including familial DNA analysis and other forensic advancements, detectives were able to include and exclude potential suspects.
Ultimately, forensic evidence recovered from Anders, the original crime scene, and Anders’ vehicle led investigators to identify Fox as the person responsible for the homicide, the release said.
This case remained unsolved for more than four decades.
“This case is a shining example of the steadfast dedication of generations of detectives who refused to let this investigation be forgotten,” said Lt. Joel Martin of the Nevada State Police Investigation Division. “While we cannot change the events of 1979, we can provide answers and bring a conclusion to a case that has remained unresolved for decades. Every victim deserves a voice, and every family deserves the truth. Today, we are able to give a voice back to the voiceless.”
The Nevada State Police would like to thank the Washoe County Forensic Investigation Section for their partnership, expertise, and assistance in bringing this investigation to a conclusion.
While no arrest can be made due to the suspect’s death, officials hope the resolution of this case provides closure to the family and loved ones of Edgar Anders.
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