FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 12, 2026

Salt Lake City Police Department Identifies Suspect in 1993 Homicide Case

SALT LAKE CITY-Today, the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) announced detectives have identified the person responsible for the 1993 murder of 35-year-old Theresa Morlock. After 33 years, the SLCPD Homicide Squad made an arrest.

On February 24, 1993, SLCPD officers responded to an apartment located at 643 South Redwood Road on a report of a deceased person. When officers entered the apartment, they discovered evidence of a struggle and located the body of 35-year-old Theresa Morlock.

Despite extensive investigative efforts at the time, detectives were unable to immediately identify a suspect. The case remained open, and investigators continued to review evidence over the years.

Advancements in DNA technology ultimately helped detectives identify a suspect in the case.

On March 11, 2026, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals, Salt Lake Police Detectives arrested James Wallace Petersen III on charges of First-Degree Murder and Aggravated Sexual Assault in connection with Morlock’s death.

This arrest reflects the commitment of our detectives to never give up on victims and their families.  Even after decades, we continue to pursue justice.

Thank you to the Cedar City Police Department for their assistance.

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