DNA evidence solves 1962 Southwest Washington double homicide - The Daily Chronicle

DNA evidence solves 1962 Southwest Washington double homicide - The Daily Chronicle

DNA evidence has helped solve a 1962 double homicide near Battle Ground, marking the oldest cold case resolution in Clark County Sheriff’s Office history. Investigators identified Barton M. Stebbins and Walter Stain as suspects in the killings of Charles Hale, 71, and Lester McCollum, 67, who were found dead on June 24, 1962. The final DNA breakthrough came Oct. 1, 2026, more than 64 years after the murders. Although both suspects died before th…