Suspect DNA Solves Murder Case of Teen Two Decades to the Day Later!

When 15-year old Elena Lasswell was murdered on July 10, 2004 no one knew it would take exactly two whole decades to arrest the person responsible for her death.

According to a statement released by Phoenix authorities, officers were sent to a home near the area of 23rd Avenue and Thomas Road. When officers arrived, they, along with Phoenix Fire crews, were directed to a room where Lasswell was found.

"Emergency lifesaving measures were attempted but Lasswell did not survive her injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene," read a portion of the statement.

Lasswell's murder case, police say, eventually went cold, despite investigators presenting the case to Silent Witness and asking for community support in identifying a suspect. Nothing turned up. Until almost ten years later.

The case, however, took a new turn in 2012, when cold case detectives were able to identify a profile that matched a possible suspect, using DNA collection techniques.

"In March of 2013, DNA evidence was processed and confirmed Francisco Reyes as the lead suspect. In 2014, the Maricopa County Grand Jury indicted Reyes, who was living in Mexico at the time," It would take authorities another ten years to extradite Reyes.

Lasswell's family is relieved knowing that the person responsible for her murder is off of the streets. "Knowing that someone is being held responsible feels awesome," said Katie Tourville. "It's been a long haul, and thank god for Phoenix PD. They have been absolutely amazing. I just really felt that they were on the right trail, and that they would get it. I just didn't know when."

Elena's mother had passed away in the years since her daughter's murder, but Tourville said the mother's wish was not revenge.

"She wanted him to be caught so he couldn't hurt anyone else," Tourville said.

On the twentieth anniversary of Lasswell's murder, July 10, 2024 Reyes, now 37, was extradited from Mexico, and is accused of committing multiple violent felonies, including sexual assault and 1st degree murder.