HAMPTON, Virginia – A recent breakthrough in a decades-old murder case has shed light on the identity of a suspect in three separate killings dating back to the late 1980s. After more than thirty years, DNA evidence has linked deceased fisherman Alan W. Wilmer to the deaths of David Knobling, Robin Edwards, and Teresa Lynn Howell.
The victims, all killed in southeast Virginia, have long been associated with the infamous Colonial Parkway Murders, a series of double homicides that occurred between 1986 and 1989. However, investigators have now determined that there is no forensic or physical evidence linking Knobling and Edwards’ murder with the other homicides.
Wilmer, who died in 2017, was identified as the suspect after an undisclosed tip prompted a DNA request. Despite having no reported felonies in his background, Wilmer’s DNA was never collected and entered into a criminal database, making it impossible to identify him until now.
Family members of the victims expressed mixed emotions at a recent press conference where the suspect was named. While they hope the identification of the killer brings closure, they also acknowledged that Wilmer’s death means certain questions may never be answered.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about Wilmer to come forward. They have described him as 5’5” and 165 pounds, with sandy-brown hair, blue eyes, and a close-cropped beard, often using the nickname “Pokey.” In addition, Wilmer drove a blue 1966 Dodge Fargo pickup truck with the Virginia license plate EM-RAW. He was known to work as a clam and oyster fisherman and ran a business called Better Tree Service.
While the suspect’s death may bring an end to the possibility of prosecution, it also leaves behind unanswered questions for the families of the victims. For now, the identity of the suspect has provided both closure and further challenges for all those involved.