Identified: Killer of Teen Found in River 36 Years Later
Decades-Long Mystery Solved
In a breakthrough moment for cold case investigations, the killer of Tracy Whitney, a teenager brutally murdered in northwestern Washington 36 years ago, has finally been identified. Tracy’s body was discovered in the Puyallup River near Sumner on August 28, 1988. The autopsy revealed she had been asphyxiated from strangulation and probable smothering, with signs of sexual assault.
Years of Unsolved Grief
Despite rigorous investigative efforts by Pierce County detectives, the case went cold for years. In 2005, DNA samples from the crime scene failed to yield any matches in the national database, leaving Tracy’s family and law enforcement at a standstill. Tracy’s loved ones were left grappling with unprecedented grief and a sense of injustice as the perpetrator remained at large.
A Long-Awaited Resolution
It wasn’t until 2022, with the assistance of a grant from the Washington State Attorney General’s Office, that a breakthrough occurred. Pierce County cold case detectives turned to genetic genealogy to solve the mystery. By tracing the DNA to a biological son, John Guillot Jr., of the deceased suspect, the pieces of the puzzle finally came together. Despite John Guillot Jr.’s passing, his identification as Tracy’s killer brought a sense of closure to her family and the community.
A Bittersweet Ending
While Tracy’s killer may not face prosecution due to his demise, the revelation of his identity has provided solace to her family. Her sister, Robin Whitney, expressed hope that Guillot’s public identification could shed light on potential links to other unsolved cases, hinting at a possible trail of crimes left behind by the perpetrator.
In a world where justice often evades the grasp of those seeking closure, Tracy Whitney’s case serves as a beacon of hope. The relentless pursuit of truth by the Cold Case Unit exemplifies the unwavering dedication of law enforcement to bring answers to families left in the dark. As they continue to unravel the past, one can’t help but wonder how many more mysteries lie waiting to be solved, offering solace to those who have long awaited justice.
