Federal, state and local law enforcement are hopeful that advancements in forensic technology can shed new light on the 30-year-old unsolved murder of Virginia State Police Trooper Johnny Rush Bowman.
Testing performed by the fbi Laboratory on forensic evidence originally submitted in 1984, was retested in the late 1990s and, most recently, in 2010. As a result of the latest testing by the FBI, new information regarding DNA found at the scene has generated extra information for investigators.
In the early morning hours of Aug. 19, 1984, Trooper Bowman answered the front door of his residence in the Bristoe Station development of Manassas, Va., and was repeatedly stabbed by an unknown assailant(s). Trooper Bowman’s wife was present during the attack and placed the 911 call for assistance. The attacker(s) fled on foot from the Bowman residence, leaving behind eyeglasses, a wig and a construction hard hat. Trooper Bowman, 31, died shortly thereafter at a local hospital. In addition to his wife, Trooper Bowman left behind a 2-year-old daughter.
Investigators from the Virginia State Police, Manassas City Police Department, and fbi along with the Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney have been involved in this case since 1984 and continue to diligently follow every lead. In 2005, Virginia State Police conducted a widespread media campaign asking for the public’s assistance in recalling any details that could help to solve this case.
In August 2012, the FBI, Virginia State Police and Manassas City Police Department announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for the murder of Trooper Bowman.
Law enforcement agencies are asking anyone with information to contact the Virginia State Police tip line at 703-803-2637 or e-mail their information to [email protected]. Information may also be reported to the Manassas City Police Department Investigative Services Division at 703-257-8092 or Crime Solvers. The Manassas City Crime Solvers will pay a cash reward up to $1000.00 for information that leads to an arrest in these cases.
The confidential 24-hour tip line is 703-330-0330. The fbi can be contacted at 1-800-CALL-fbi (1800-225-5324).
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Chris Graham
