As of Oct. 6, 2021, a 53-year-old cold case seemingly came to a close. 

A group of former law enforcement members known as the “Case Breakers” has claimed Gary Poste, an ex-veteran, to be the Zodiac Killer. Poste was identified by the scars on his forehead, which match a police sketch formed by a witness in the 60’s. 

The Zodiac Killer was primarily active in the San Francisco Bay area between 1968 and 1969, with connections to 6 murders during the time period. However, through a series of cryptic ciphers sent to police stations and newspapers, the killer confessed to 37 murders. These ciphers caught the attention of America because they typically mocked and toyed with law enforcement.

In 2020, a cipher sent to the San Francisco Chronicle in 1969 was cracked. It read:

“I hope you are having lots of fun in trying to catch me. I am not afraid of the gas chamber because it will send me to paradise all the sooner because I now have enough slaves to work for me.”

Once the ciphers were solved, a witness, who used to be Poste’s neighbor, came forward with information regarding the odd memories she had of Poste, connecting him further to the killings. 

The witness remembers seeing Poste bury weapons in the woods at the time of the murders. This neighbor was also babysat by Poste and his wife, during which he taught her how to use firearms. She also said Poste was abusive towards his wife during the time they lived next to each other. 

Gary Poste is no longer alive due to his death in 2018.

Despite the physical and forensic evidence, the FBI is continuing the investigation due to past tips which have been proven false. Out of respect for the families of the victims, the police haven’t revealed any further information about the case.

Read more about the individual ciphers and their meanings here: 

https://www.history.com/news/the-zodiac-ciphers-what-we-know