DNA Evidence Solves Double Homicide in Southern Oregon, Feb. 10

On the afternoon of June 15, 2015, the Josephine County Major Crime team was activated to investigate a double homicide at a residence in Grants Pass, Oregon. After investigators arrived they found the bodies of Jerry and Joann Jackson inside the residence with several wounded dogs, one of which succumbed to injuries later. The suspect was located and arrested shortly thereafter in a vehicle he stole from the residence. Over the next weeks and months the investigators worked with the Josephine County District Attorney’s office and the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division to process the evidence. They were able to use DNA analysis to tie the suspect, BRIAN SCOTT KILLIAN, to the stolen vehicle, several crime scenes, and other key evidence. The DNA was a critical factor in the successful prosecution of this case. According to the Josephine County District Attorney’s office, the lab results had a huge impact in resolving the case: KILLIAN pleaded guilty to a variety of criminal charges, including multiple counts of Aggravated Murder, and he agreed to “true life” sentences, which will ensure he dies in prison. Great teamwork, communication, and cooperation between the Josephine County Major Crime Team and the Forensic Services Division contributed to the successful resolution of the case.