DNA Evidence Discovered in Martin Case

(Bonne Terre, MO) DNA evidence from the 1989 murder case of Jimmy Wade Martin, of Bonne Terre, is being tested this week and the results should be known soon. St. Francois County Prosecuting Attorney, Melissa Gilliam has been assisting with the investigation and she says advancements in DNA testing technology may help them finally solve this cold case.

The evidence is being tested by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Records indicate charges of murder in the second degree were dropped a few days before the trial of the original suspect in the case, David Bryan White of Potosi. The charges are said to have been dropped due to a lack of evidence. The murder took place the night of October 14th, 1989 near the Coal Bin Tavern in Bonne Terre. Martin's body was found on a sidewalk on Mound Street with what appeared to have been injuries from being struck with a blunt object.