FBI DNA Evidence Bolsters Case Against Serial Killings Suspect

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  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 20:35 GMT by KOB 4
      Locale: Oklahoma, UNITED STATES

FBI DNA Evidence Mounts Against Suspect in Oklahoma/Kansas Serial Killings

GUTHRIE, Oklahoma - Federal investigators have announced a significant development in the case against William Salter, 51, the man suspected of being a serial killer responsible for the deaths of four women across Oklahoma and Kansas. The FBI confirmed Tuesday the recovery of DNA from a glove discovered in a wooded area near Salter's Okmulgee County home, and preliminary analysis indicates a match to DNA found on a glove recovered from a known crime scene linked to the suspect. This new evidence bolsters the case against Salter and strengthens the prosecution's position as they prepare to bring murder charges.

Salter, often referred to as 'Guthrie' by investigators, is currently in federal custody facing charges related to the interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle - a charge that provided authorities with the initial legal framework to detain him while building the case for the more serious accusations. The FBI anticipates filing additional charges of murder in connection with the deaths of the four identified victims. The agency is also continuing to investigate Salter's potential involvement in the disappearances and deaths of several other women in the region.

The recovered glove represents a crucial piece of forensic evidence. According to an affidavit filed in federal court, investigators believe the glove found near Salter's home may have been worn by him during one of the murders. This suggests a direct link between the suspect and the crime scenes, moving beyond circumstantial evidence. The matching DNA, recovered using advanced forensic techniques, dramatically increases the probative value of the glove as evidence.

"This is another piece of evidence that links Salter to these crimes," stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Mary Elizabeth Fowler in a press briefing. "We are confident that we will be able to bring Salter to justice."

The victims, whose identities have been released by authorities, were last seen between 2022 and 2023. The investigations into their disappearances spanned multiple states and involved collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. The complexities of the case stemmed from the victims being found in different locations and the lack of immediate connections initially apparent to investigators. It was meticulous work, including analyzing patterns in the disappearances and utilizing forensic genealogy, that ultimately led authorities to focus on Salter.

Forensic genealogy, a relatively new investigative tool, utilizes publicly available DNA databases to identify potential relatives of an unknown suspect. This technique played a critical role in narrowing down the list of potential suspects and ultimately led investigators to Salter. While controversial due to privacy concerns, forensic genealogy has proven invaluable in solving cold cases and bringing closure to families of victims.

The investigation is far from over. While the DNA evidence provides a strong connection, prosecutors are meticulously building a comprehensive case with the goal of securing a conviction. They are expected to present a range of evidence, including forensic findings, witness testimony, and digital forensics, to paint a complete picture of Salter's alleged actions. Investigators are still working to locate additional evidence, including potential weapons or other items linked to the crimes.

Local communities in Oklahoma and Kansas are breathing a collective sigh of relief with this latest development. For months, residents have lived under a cloud of fear, uncertain if the perpetrator was still at large. The arrest of Salter and the ongoing investigation have provided a measure of comfort, although the pain of loss remains for the families of the victims. Victim advocacy groups are providing support and resources to those affected by the crimes, helping them navigate the legal process and cope with their grief.

The case highlights the importance of interagency cooperation in solving complex criminal investigations. The FBI, state police, and local law enforcement agencies worked seamlessly together, sharing information and resources to build a strong case against Salter. This collaborative approach is becoming increasingly common in modern law enforcement, as agencies recognize the need to pool their expertise to tackle sophisticated criminal activity.