SAINT CLOUD, FL – A decades-old homicide mystery has been unraveled in Saint Cloud, Florida, leading to the arrest of a 72-year-old man. The breakthrough in the 1991 murder case of Julia Sue Wilbanks, a 27-year-old woman found stabbed 17 times, came through advancements in DNA technology.
The pivotal piece of evidence was a bloodstain on the shorts Wilbanks wore at the time of her murder. This bloodstain, long a puzzle for investigators, finally provided the lead they needed with the help of genetic genealogy. By tracing familial connections through DNA, police zeroed in on Gene Stuller from Apopka, who now faces charges of second-degree murder.
Stuller, when confronted, denied having any connection to the crime. “Do you know why your DNA was found on her pants?” he was asked. “No, sir,” he replied. Despite his denial, the statistical likelihood of the DNA belonging to anyone other than Stuller is staggeringly low, according to investigators.
The Saint Cloud Police Department credits the arrest to advances in genetic technology, which allowed them to identify family members related to the suspect. This genealogical approach ultimately led them to Stuller, who was under surveillance earlier this year.
In March, detectives collected a discarded straw from Stuller, which provided the DNA needed for comparison. Forensic testing confirmed a match with the male DNA found on Wilbanks’ clothing, cementing the case against him.
Chief Douglas Gerkey of the Saint Cloud Police expressed confidence in the evidence, noting the profound implications of DNA technology in solving cold cases. “As DNA science continues to advance, it becomes a powerful tool in bringing justice to victims,” said Gerkey.
While Stuller maintains his innocence, the evidence places him at the scene of the crime. The arrest serves as a reminder of the relentless pursuit of justice, even after more than three decades.
This case highlights the potential for modern science to breathe new life into unsolved cases, offering hope to families who have waited years for closure. Investigators remain committed to employing these technologies to address unresolved crimes, ensuring that justice is served.