Police say they had found the suspect, who is awaiting trial for another murder in Colorado, more than 30 years after a lady was killed in an alley in Chinatown, San Francisco.
On Wednesday, police declared that Ricky Dawson had been given an arrest warrant in connection with the cold case murder of Nancy Hernandez, 45, on May 2, 1992.
According to a statement from Police Chief Bill Scott, “this is proof that we will never rest until a case is solved, regardless of how old a case is.” “I want to thank our homicide and cold case investigators who have worked diligently on this case to bring justice to Ms. Hernandez and her family.”
Hernandez’s body was discovered in a utility corridor on Hang Ah Street, a narrow alleyway off of Clay Street, according to the cops. Hernandez has been residing there without a place to live.
According to an autopsy, the woman had been sexually abused, severely beaten, and strangled.
Before the Cold Case Section resumed the case in November 2023, no suspects had been identified. After entering DNA profiles into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), the department’s crime lab discovered that Dawson’s profile matched the profiles.
Dawson has been connected to at least three other killings involving sexual assault in various regions of the nation, including Denver, Seattle, and Panama Beach, Florida, according to police.
In Denver, Dawson is presently awaiting trial for the murder of Terri Turachak, age 35. Prosecutors in Denver claim that Turachak was strangled and beaten at her residence on October 5, 1996.
According to authorities, Dawson was extradited from Florida to Colorado two years ago after DNA evidence connected him to Turachak’s murder.
According to San Francisco police, Dawson has been placed on hold and the warrant has been forwarded to the Denver Sheriff Department. Dawson will be returned to San Francisco after his trial in Colorado.
Contact the San Francisco Police Department at 415-575-4444 if you have any further information regarding the case.
Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.