FBI searching for serial killer in California cold case

June 16, 2016

In attempt to solve a 40-year-old cold case, the FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information that leads to the apprehension of a California serial killer. The killer is suspected of committing 12 murders and 45 rapes in California between 1976 and 1986. [Reuters]

The “Golden State Killer” or “East Area Rapist” would sneak into houses and confront sleeping couples in bed. The killer would then shine a flashlight in their eyes, tie up the man and rape the woman, according to the FBI.

Occasionally, the man would kill the couple. The killer would also attack women who were home alone or with their children.

Investigators say DNA evidence and killer’s chillingly and unique methods link the him to the 12 murders and 45 rapes.

Additionally, the killer burglarized homes and stole valuables from victims while they were tied up. He accumulated a trove of coins and jewelry. The FBI is asking people to contact investigators if they have discovered a hidden collection of items belonging to a friend or relative.

[ad1] The first crime attributed to the man is a rape that occurred in the Sacramento area on June 18, 1976, approximately 40 years ago. An FBI spokeswoman said now is an ideal time to refresh everyone’s memories and encourage people to come forward with information.

Between, 1976 and 1978, the killer committed burglaries, rapes and killings in the Sacramento area. In 1979, he centered his attacks in the eastern region of the Bay Area. He then killed several people along the California Coast over the next two years.

After a 1981 killing in Irvine, he appeared to have stopped until 1986. That year, he struck again in Irvine, raping and killing a teenager in his final attack, according to the FBI.

Investigators believe the killer is now between 60 and 75 years old. He is described as a white male, about 5 feet 10 inches tall with blond or light brown hair.