TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — After almost 37 years, investigators in Florida have finally solved the 1986 cold case murder of nurse Teresa Lee Scalf. The breakthrough came thanks to the discovery of an “illicit” affair by a relative of the suspected killer.
On October 27, 1986, Scalf’s mother, Betty Scalf, found her daughter dead in her Lakeland home after she failed to show up for work. Teresa Scalf’s throat had been slit and she had defensive wounds on her hands. Detectives confirmed that the murder was sexually motivated. Scalf, a 29-year-old nurse, lived alone with her 8-year-old son at the time of her murder.
For years, investigators were unable to identify the killer due to a lack of proper technology. However, in 2022, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office partnered with Othram Inc., a DNA genealogy company, to conduct further analysis. Through genealogies and family histories, investigators were able to trace the suspect’s family tree and eventually obtain a DNA match.
The suspect, identified as Donald Douglas, was questioned by detectives at the time of the murder but was not considered a suspect. He died of natural causes in 2008 at the age of 54 and his body was cremated. However, DNA analysis of a blood sample found at the murder scene confirmed his involvement. The DNA profile indicated a 100% confidence of a parent/child biological relationship between Douglas and the blood found at the scene.
Teresa Scalf’s family expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their dedication to solving the case. Her mother, Betty Scalf, said, “I’m 84 years old. I lived to see this done. I think that’s why I lived so long.”
This breakthrough in the cold case is a testament to the advancements in DNA technology and the persistence of investigators. It brings closure to a family who has long awaited justice for Teresa’s murder.