Full Breakdown
Cold Case Closure: Elizabeth Wasson's Murder Linked to Serial Killer Cesar Barone
2/11/2026, 4:59:06 AM
Investigative Breakthrough in a 1992 Murder Case
The Washington County District Attorney's Office's Cold Case Unit has confirmed a forensic link between the 1992 murder of Elizabeth Wasson and serial killer Cesar Barone, who died in prison in 2009. Wasson, an 83-year-old resident of Hillsboro, was found strangled in her home on September 23, 1992, after her daughter returned from a grocery trip and discovered her mother deceased. At the time, the investigation yielded no suspects or clear motives, and there were no signs of forced entry or theft.
Background on Cesar Barone
Cesar Barone was convicted in 1995 for the murders of four women in Hillsboro and Cornelius, and he was sentenced to death. He was also known to have sexually assaulted and strangled three other women who survived their attacks. Although Barone was previously considered a suspect in Wasson's murder, investigators could not establish a direct connection until recent advancements in forensic technology.
Renewed Investigation
In 2023, Hillsboro Police Detective Megan Townsend revisited the cold case, leading to the breakthrough that linked Barone to Wasson's murder. Townsend expressed the importance of providing answers to Wasson's family, stating, “For years, this family lived without answers. Today, we’re finally able to give them the truth they deserved from the beginning.” The Washington County Cold Case Unit, established in 2020 with federal funding, focuses on unsolved cases where identifiable DNA can be utilized.
Official Statements on the Case
Washington County District Attorney Kevin Barton praised the efforts of the cold case investigators, emphasizing the significance of solving such cases for victims and their families. Chief Deputy District Attorney Allison Brown added, “While many years have passed, we hope this result brings some closure to the victim’s family and to the community.” The Wasson family has been informed of the developments and expressed relief that the case is now resolved.
Criticism & Opposition
While the resolution of Wasson's case has been welcomed, some community members have raised concerns about the time it took to solve the case and the resources allocated to cold case investigations. They argue that more proactive measures could have potentially prevented other crimes linked to Barone.
Verbatim Quotes
- “For years, this family lived without answers. Today, we’re finally able to give them the truth they deserved from the beginning. Our thoughts remain with them, and we honor the life of Elizabeth Wasson by ensuring this case is no longer left in silence,” — Megan Townsend, Hillsboro Police Detective
- “With every cold case solved, we are sending a message to victims and their families that they are not forgotten.” — Kevin Barton, Washington County District Attorney
- “ “While many years have passed, we hope this result brings some closure to the victim’s family and to the community.” — Allison Brown, Chief Deputy District Attorney
The closure of Elizabeth Wasson's case marks a significant moment for both her family and the Hillsboro community, highlighting the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to address unresolved crimes.
