A cold case in New Hampshire, dating back nearly 50 years, has finally reached a resolution thanks to modern DNA techniques. Authorities announced the identification of the killer of Judith Lord, who was murdered in her Concord apartment on May 20, 1975.
Details of the Murder
Judith Lord, just 22 years old at the time, was discovered dead by a staff member attempting to collect unpaid rent. The staff member heard a baby crying inside the apartment. Upon investigation, it was determined that Lord had suffered a violent struggle before being sexually assaulted and strangled. Her infant son, just 20 months old, was found unharmed in a separate room.
Initial Investigation and Suspects
Forensic evidence, including hair and seminal fluid, was gathered from the crime scene. Investigators initially focused on three suspects: Lord’s estranged husband and two neighbors. The husband provided an alibi and was cleared of suspicion. One neighbor was also excluded based on evidence, leading the investigation toward Ernest Theodore Gable, Lord’s next-door neighbor at the age of 24.
- Gable lived next to Lord and shared a wall with her apartment.
- Witnesses reported that Lord was fearful of Gable.
- Gable’s fingerprints were discovered on the outside of Lord’s windows.
Challenges in the Investigation
Physical evidence linked Gable to the crime, but initial forensic analysis led to erroneous conclusions that excluded him. This flaw created barriers for prosecutors, causing the investigation to stall for decades. In 2015, the FBI acknowledged that many forensic hair comparison tests from that era were flawed.
Breakthrough with Modern DNA Testing
Decades later, reopening the case for new examination yielded significant results. DNA testing matched seminal fluid found at the scene to Gable. The outdated hair comparison tests were also corrected, confirming the microscopic evidence attributed to him.
The Fate of Gable
Ernest Gable was killed in Los Angeles in February 1987 at the age of 36. Although he is no longer alive, the investigation is now formally closed, recognizing Gable as Lord’s murderer. The Cold Case Unit had intentions to pursue charges against him had he been alive.
Community Reaction and Moving Forward
New Hampshire attorney general John Formella expressed hope that this conclusion would bring peace to Judith Lord’s family and the Concord community after almost five decades of seeking justice. He emphasized the importance of resolving such cold cases and praised investigators for their diligence amid past technological limitations.
This case serves as a reminder that the pursuit of truth remains vital, and advancements in forensic science can lead to long-awaited justice.
