Update: Detectives Solve Decades-Old Cold Case with DNA Breakthrough

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Fairfax, VA – Yesterday, Stephan Smerk was extradited to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center and is now in our custody awaiting trial. He is charged with second-degree murder and is being held with no bond. 

Thank you to our Cold Case Unit detectives and analysts committed to seeking justice. 

Original blog posted on September 11, 2023:

Fairfax, VA – After nearly 29 years of questions about a homicide that occurred in the West Springfield District, Fairfax County Police Department detectives are finally able to bring answers to the victim’s family.

To watch the press conference, click here.

51-year-old Stephan Smerk, of Niskayuna, NY, is facing Second Degree Murder charges related to the tragic homicide of 37-year-old Robin Lawrence. On November 20, 1994, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Lawrence was found stabbed to death inside her home, located in the 8600 block of Reseca Lane, in Springfield.

During the initial investigation, detectives were proactive in their efforts to interview suspects and witnesses, and to recover evidence from the scene. In 1994, a DNA profile was developed; however, at the time there was no match in any system for the recovered DNA.

In the years that followed, detectives from the Cold Case Unit continued their efforts to meticulously review the evidence to identify a suspect. After many years of dedicated time to this case, a familial DNA match was found with the suspect. Detectives determined Smerk was working in the area at the time of the murder.

Pictures of Smerk from 1988 and 1998 were found and compared to a digital composite image created by Parabon NanoLabs. Parabon NanoLabs is a DNA technology company in Northern Virginia that specializes in DNA phenotyping and genetic genealogy analysis: processes that predict physical appearance and biological relationships from unidentified DNA evidence.

Detectives traveled to New York and obtained a confession from Smerk to the murder. Detectives then obtained a warrant for Second-Degree Murder. Smerk was arrested and is waiting to be extradited to Fairfax County.

“Our cold case detectives exhibit unparalleled dedication when it comes to closing a case with many unknowns,” said Chief of Police Kevin Davis. “This case is but one example of how our department’s police work goes above and beyond, and it exemplifies our commitment to delivering justice regardless of the timeline.”

Anyone with additional information regarding this case is encouraged to call our Major Crimes Bureau at 703-246-7800, option 2. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone – 1-866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477), and by web  Click HERE. Download the ‘P3 Tips’ App “Fairfax Co Crime Solvers”. Anonymous tipsters are eligible for cash rewards. Please leave contact information if you wish for a detective to follow up with you.  

Victim specialists from our Major Crimes Bureau’s Victim Services Division have been assigned to ensure the victim’s family is receiving appropriate resources and assistance. 

Join us on Neighbors by Ring. A place where you can connect with your neighbors, see what’s happening in your neighborhood and share any available surveillance footage with our department. 

For a link to our Cold Case page, visit here.

For ongoing updates, please read our blog and follow us on Twitter, Facebook , and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD