Police recently resolved the ruthless murder case of an 18-year-old Utah woman after identifying her alleged killer through DNA and other evidence, police announced by police 40 years after her death.

The body of Christine Gallegos was found in a field in Salt Lake City on May 16, 1985. She was beaten, sexually assaulted, stabbed and fatal shooting, and police said it was obvious that she was struggling with the assaulter.

Salt Lake City police said Thursday that the man was a 27-year-old pilot who died in 2023.

Police said that despite “detailed efforts and multiple forensic tests over the years, no viable prospects emerged after the murder of Gallegos, her death remains a mystery for 40 years.

"These cold cases of homicides are difficult and challenging - any homicide investigation is - but when years pass (as in that number) become even more challenging." Police Chief Brian Redd said in a press conference Thursday.

In 2023, the case was re-examined, and previously unknown DNA samples were sent to Othram Labs, Texas. The company specializes in cold cases and uses family tree. The work was funded by a grant from the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative, officials said.

The test results allowed researchers to determine that Ricky Lee Stallworth might be the suspect in the case. Police said the DNA of family members confirmed the game.

Stallworth is a 27-year-old pilot stationed at Hill Air Force Base when Gallegos died. Police said he was never identified as a potential suspect and therefore never interviewed during the investigation.

Police said their relationship, if any, remains unclear, "and remains one of the most important unresolved issues in this case."

Stallworth, who lives in Layton, Utah, died of natural causes in July 2023.

"We can't arrest the suspect, but hopefully we have implemented a certain level of measures for her and her family and friends who love her."

In a press conference Thursday, Galgos' mother Leah thanked police for continuing to investigate her daughter's murder, even though the trail was cold.

"I didn't know I could talk - I just knew I missed this girl every day," she said. "I wanted to know the kids she would have, my daughters and grandchildren watching others."