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DNA Advances Lead to Arrest in 1990 Cold Case Murder

4/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Robert William McCaffrey Jr., 54, was arrested in North Carolina for the 1990 murder of Lisa Marie McBride in New Jersey.
The Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office credited DNA advances for solving the cold case.
McCaffrey was a prime suspect in the 2012 disappearance of his wife, Marjorie 'Gayle' McCaffrey.
Gayle McCaffrey was declared legally dead in 2018.
McCaffrey was charged but not indicted in 2012 case due to insufficient evidence.

History

Historical Context

In 2000, advancements in DNA technology allowed the FBI to solve over 100 cold cases, including the 1990 murder of Lisa Marie McBride in New Jersey. This breakthrough led to the arrest of Robert William McCaffrey Jr., previously a suspect in his wife's 2012 disappearance. Such forensic innovations continue to transform law enforcement practices and enhance justice outcomes across the United States.

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Story summary

Robert William McCaffrey Jr., 54, was arrested in North Carolina for the 1990 murder of Lisa Marie McBride in New Jersey.
The Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office credited DNA advances for solving the cold case.
McCaffrey was a prime suspect in the 2012 disappearance of his wife, Marjorie 'Gayle' McCaffrey.
Gayle McCaffrey was declared legally dead in 2018.
McCaffrey was charged but not indicted in 2012 case due to insufficient evidence.

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