In 2023, a forensic review of the case identified additional DNA of an unknown male within the evidence collected during the initial investigation. That DNA evidence was submitted to an organization specializing in forensic genetic geneaology, which identified a possible family lineage within the U.S. and Canada.

Wenatchee police passed those results on to Canadian counterparts, who then identified Leland through the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS).

Investigators then tracked down Leland’s only known living biological relative, a sister living in Gold Bar, Washington. The sister helped police confirm Leland as the suspect in the homicide.

With Leland as the lone suspect, Wenatchee Police Department has now closed its 40-year investigation into Traicoff’s killing.

Henry Leland House

Leland is the namesake of Henry Leland House, a 28-unit transitional housing facility located at Fifth Avenue and St. Paul Street in downtown Kamloops. It is operated by ASK Wellness.

When it opened in 2009, a news release from the provincial government said Leland was an Indigenous man who had been living on the streets of Kamloops for years before he died.

“He was regarded by the community as a kind soul, and unfortunately passed away in December 2007 due to exposure,” noted the release.

by James Peters

Police in U.S. solve 40-year-old homicide, name now-deceased Kamloops man as lone suspect

Henry Leland House

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