Henderson Police Department Closes 1981 Cold Case Homicide

The Henderson Police Department has made significant progress in a cold case homicide dating back to 1981, culminating in the identification of a key suspect in the murder of 20-year-old Vicki Radig.

Background of the Case

Vicki Radig was reported missing in March 1981 after failing to return home from work. Her family became alarmed when she did not arrive as expected. The investigation revealed that Radig had spent time with her boyfriend, Walter Bradley DeMint, prior to her disappearance.

The Discovery of Radig’s Body

Two days after her family reported her missing, Radig’s body was discovered in a remote desert area near Boulder Highway. The forensic examination concluded that she had suffered fatal blunt and sharp force trauma, leading authorities to classify her death as a homicide.

Investigation Developments

From the beginning of the investigation, DeMint was viewed as a person of interest. Although DeMint initially provided an account of the events stating that Radig had left following an argument, his statements were found to be inconsistent. Unfortunately, investigators did not possess enough evidence at that time to proceed with charges against him.

Breakthrough in Forensic Evidence

Fast forward to 2021, when the cold case homicide unit of the Henderson Police Department submitted evidence for DNA testing. The results identified DeMint as a contributor to the DNA found on swabs collected during the investigation. Further forensic analysis in 2022 and 2023 revealed no other DNA profiles present besides those of Radig and DeMint.

Legal Status and Family Notification

The Clark County District Attorney’s office reviewed the case and found that DeMint was the only plausible suspect identified. Although he passed away in 2007, had he been alive today, he would likely have faced a charge of open murder.

The family of Vicki Radig has been kept informed about the developments in the case and continues to receive support from the Henderson Police Department.

Conclusion

This significant advancement in the case underscores the importance of forensic technology in solving cold cases and provides a measure of closure for the family affected by this tragic event.