How Did Gary Ridgway Get Caught
Gary Ridgway, known as the Green River Killer, was caught after investigators linked him to victims through DNA evidence and a lengthy interrogation process. His arrest came decades after the first known murders attributed to him.
Authorities collected DNA samples from crime scenes and stored them in databases. As forensic technology improved, they were able to match this genetic material to Ridgway. This scientific evidence formed a critical part of the case against him.
In 2003, detectives confronted Ridgway with the DNA evidence. Faced with the certainty of the genetic match, he confessed to numerous killings. His detailed admissions provided closure for many families and helped investigators locate remains.
The case is often studied in relation to how cold cases are resolved. For more details on the investigation and arrest, see the Britannica biography of Gary Ridgway.
