James Vanest Identified in 1981 Murder of Debra Lee Miller Solved with DNA Technology

Dec 31, 2024, 09:25 PM

Authorities in Ohio have solved the 1981 murder of Debra Lee Miller, an 18-year-old waitress from Mansfield, using advanced DNA technology. James Vanest, her 68-year-old upstairs neighbor at the time, was identified as the suspect. Vanest had been questioned in the original investigation but was not charged. The case was reopened in 2021 to leverage advancements in forensic techniques, leading to a DNA match from evidence at the scene, including murder weapons such as pots, pans, and oven grates. The initial investigation had been mired in allegations of police misconduct. Vanest fled after being re-interviewed and was later indicted on unrelated federal gun charges. In November 2024, he was killed in a shootout with law enforcement while they attempted to serve the indictment. Police consider the case closed and hope the resolution provides closure to Miller's family.