Ted Bundy linked to 1974 Utah murder of teen Melissa Ann Smith via DNA evidence

Authorities in Utah have officially linked serial killer Ted Bundy to the 1974 murder of 17-year-old Melissa Ann Smith, a case that had remained cold for over five decades. The breakthrough came through DNA analysis connecting evidence found on Smith's body to Bundy's known DNA profile.

Investigators in Utah had long suspected Bundy, who operated in the state during the 1970s, may have been responsible for Smith's death. Her body was discovered in the woods on October 27, 1974. The critical link was established when investigators used new genotyping technology to analyze degraded or mixed DNA samples. This technology allowed for a full DNA profile to be built, which was then compared to Bundy's DNA profile held in Florida, where he was eventually executed.

Summit County Attorney Margaret Olson stated at a news conference that Smith's death exhibited Bundy's characteristic pattern, motive, means, and opportunity. "Although Ted Bundy is no longer alive to face prosecution, advances in forensic science and continued dedication of law enforcement professionals have helped provide answers in a case that has remained unsolved for over 50 years," Olson said. "Most importantly, we remember Melissa Ann Smith and the somber significance of finally bringing this investigation to a close."

Smith, the daughter of former Midvale Police Chief Louis S. Smith, was reported missing on October 18, 1974, after she failed to return home from a friend's house. She was last seen at a nearby restaurant. Her body was found by a deer hunter nine days later.

At the time of Smith's disappearance, Bundy was serving time in Utah State Prison for the kidnapping of another 17-year-old girl in November 1974. He also faced a murder warrant in Colorado for the death of Caryn Campbell. Despite Bundy's extensive criminal history and confessed murders, he could not initially recall the cases of Smith and Laura Aime, another victim whose case was resolved using similar DNA technology.

Bundy ultimately confessed to killing at least 30 young women across multiple states, though not all of these cases have been officially confirmed, and some victims' bodies remain undiscovered. Investigators are now working to confirm Bundy's involvement in the death of 16-year-old Nancy Wilcox, believed to be his first victim in Utah.

Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera emphasized the importance of preserving evidence and utilizing scientific advancements to solve cold cases. "We have to solve these cases to the best of our ability," she said. "Here in the state of Utah, we take it very seriously."