BOULDER, CO – John Ramsey, father of the late JonBenét Ramsey, expressed renewed optimism after a significant meeting with Boulder authorities regarding the unsolved murder of his daughter, who died tragically in their home in December 1996.
During a 90-minute session with Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn and his team earlier this week, Ramsey was briefed on efforts to employ contemporary technology in the investigation. “I’m encouraged by their commitment to solve this case,” he said, emphasizing the potential impact of genetic genealogy, which he believes is necessary to close the case.
Ramsey attended the meeting with a DNA specialist to convey the capabilities of current DNA analysis technologies. In his view, Boulder Police have seen much-needed improvement in leadership, enhancing the likelihood of progress. “For the first time in years, there’s competent leadership in place,” he expressed, adding that it brings a new hope for advancement in the case.
The potential use of genetic genealogy could increase the chances of identifying the perpetrator to about 60 or 70 percent, according to Ramsey. Without it, the odds diminish considerably. Ramsey, who traveled from Moab, Utah, firmly advocates for retesting all evidence connected to the case with the latest technology.
Reflecting on the trip back to Boulder, Ramsey noted its emotional toll. “Returning is challenging, but it’s important for the case,” he shared, recalling their immediate departure from the city, avoiding the family’s former home that holds painful memories.
Over the years, multiple suspects have emerged, including Ramsey and his family, for which authorities have since issued apologies. The handling of the case, according to Ramsey, has been fraught with frustration and disappointment. He criticized the police response that pivotal morning as inadequate and lacking support.
Ramsey previously suggested that the individual who intruded on another Boulder residence months after JonBenét’s death might be the same killer. He described the FBI’s profile of the suspect, suggesting he may be around 60 today, insinuating the possibility of more undiscovered crimes committed by this suspect before or after JonBenét’s murder.
On that fateful day, JonBenét was discovered in the home’s basement, following a 911 call made by her mother, Patsy, reporting her missing alongside finding a ransom note. The note, demanding $118,000—the identical figure to John’s recent work bonus—added another layer to the mystery.
“Clearing our family’s name is crucial, especially for my children and grandchildren,” Ramsey stressed, aiming to finally resolve the ordeal that has hovered over them for decades.
