Texas Hit-and-Run: Cold Case Solved 34 Years Later with DNA Evidence

Surveillance footage has surfaced showing a white truck colliding with a pedestrian in downtown Austin, prompting a search for the driver's whereabouts.

Confession and Arrest- The hit-and-run case from December 1989 in Charlotte, North Carolina, went cold for decades. However, with the aid of DNA technology, the perpetrator, Herbert Stanback, 68, confessed to the crime this year.

Despite a vehicle description and license plate number, the initial suspect vehicle turned out to be falsely identified. Nevertheless, a black Mitsubishi with matching damage and personal items was discovered days later, leading investigators to Stanback, who was already in custody on an unrelated charge.

A Turn of Events

Breakthrough Evidence- The investigation took a new turn when a tip in 2022 led to the reopening of the case. DNA from a marijuana cigarette found in the stolen vehicle matched Stanback. In March, during a second interview, Stanback made a comprehensive confession to the hit-and-run incident.

Closure for the Victim's Family- The police were able to bring closure to the family of Ruth Buchanan, the victim of the hit-and-run, by notifying them of the breakthrough in the case and Stanback's confession.

Scientific Advancements and Witness Contributions

The advancement of scientific means, particularly in obtaining and linking DNA over three decades later, played a pivotal role in solving the case. Additionally, witness information and initial reports from responding officers in 1989 were instrumental in this long-delayed resolution.

Stanback's Plea and Sentencing

Herbert Stanback pleaded guilty to felony hit-and-run resulting in serious injury or death. He received a two-year prison sentence, which will be served concurrently with the 22-year sentence he is already serving for an unrelated offense in North Carolina.