Breakthrough DNA testing helps solve 12-year-old murder, could crack hundreds of cold cases
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London (UK): A pioneering DNA-testing technique has led to the conviction of a man for the brutal murder of an 86-year-old woman, 12 years after the crime. The forensic breakthrough is now being hailed as a major advancement in solving long-standing cold cases.
David Newton, 56, was sentenced to life in prison in February 2025 for the murder of Una Crown, a retired postmistress found dead in her Wisbech, Cambridgeshire home in January 2013. She had been stabbed multiple times, and her throat was slit. Initially ruled an accident due to attempts to set her body on fire, police later confirmed it was a homicide.
Newton was arrested in 2013 but was released due to a lack of conclusive DNA evidence. However, in April 2024, forensic scientists reexamined samples from the crime scene using Y-STR analysis, a cutting-edge technique that identifies traces of male DNA even when mixed with larger amounts of female genetic material. The test confirmed Newton’s genetic link to the crime, leading to his conviction.
Experts say Y-STR testing could revolutionize investigations into violent crimes, particularly those against women. "This technology is a game-changer in forensic science, helping to uncover crucial evidence in cases that were once thought to be unsolvable," said Dr. Debbie Sharp of the UK’s Forensic Capability Network.
Unlike conventional DNA analysis, which often fails when male DNA is overshadowed by female genetic material, Y-STR focuses solely on the Y-chromosome, which is unique to males. This makes it highly effective in cases of sexual assault and violent crimes where the perpetrator left only minute traces of DNA.
To expand its application, Dr. Sharp is leading Swab Out Crime, a project aimed at building a comprehensive Y-STR database. So far, 4,000 DNA samples have been collected, with a goal of reaching at least 10,000. "Our long-term vision is to develop an automated system where Y-STR profiles can be matched against crime scene evidence, potentially solving hundreds of unsolved cases," she added.
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Barakah PU students register excellent performance in Second PUC examinations
Mangaluru: Students of Barakah International School and College have recorded commendable results in the Second PUC examinations, reflecting the institution’s consistent academic performance.
Fathima Thalia secured 98 percent, emerging as the top scorer. Maryam Lamya, Marwa Sahar and Fathima Rila each obtained 97 percent, while Aysha Saniya, Rinsha Fathima and Haleema Shauma secured 96 percent.
In the overall results, 51 students achieved distinction and 86 students secured first class. In subject-wise performance, six students scored centum in Economics, Biology, Mathematics and Physics.
The institution stated that it caters to students across varying academic levels and focuses on enabling them to achieve academic improvement along with the development of life skills, under the guidance of qualified faculty.
Barakah International School and College also offers NEET-integrated courses and long-term programmes for repeaters, aimed at supporting aspirants in the medical and paramedical fields. Several students have secured free seats in these fields through the institution’s training and coaching.
