Cold Case Unit confirms 1992 Elizabeth Wasson murder linked to serial killer Cesar Barone

HILLSBORO, Ore. (KATU) — The Washington County District Attorney’s Office’s Cold Case Unit has linked the 1992 unsolved murder of Elizabeth Wasson to serial killer Cesar Barone.

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“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,” said Hillsboro Police Detective Megan Townsend.

On September 23, 1992, Mrs. Wasson was found murdered in her home. “The 82-year-old woman was beloved by friends and family,” the Washington County DA’s office said in a release. “Known as the neighborhood Avon Lady, she was the widow of a pastor and a pillar of her community.”

Barone was convicted of the murder of four women and was sentenced to death. Officials say he sexually assaulted and strangled three other women who survived. He was also considered a suspect in Wasson’s death, but detectives could not directly link him to the case.

In 2023, Detective Townsend took another look at the cold case. “Detective Townsend’s review included submitting physical evidence collected at the murder scene to the Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory for additional testing. Technicians discovered male DNA on the submitted material, which forensically linked Mr. Barone to Mrs. Wasson’s murder,” the DA’s office said.

Cesar Barone appears in court – KATU photo

“I’m proud of the amazing work our cold case investigators and prosecutors have done on these incredibly important cases,” added Washington County District Attorney Kevin Barton. “With every cold case solved, we are sending a message to victims and their families that they are not forgotten. We look forward to continuing to do this work and hope to solve more cases.”

“While many years have passed, we hope this result brings some closure to the victim’s family and to the community. This office remains dedicated to delivering justice for victims and their loved ones, no matter how much time has passed,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Allison Brown.

Officials say that Mrs. Wasson’s family were told of the developments and they expressed relief that the case is now closed.

Barone died in prison in 2009.