In a significant development in a decades-old murder investigation, William Morton, aged 61, has been charged with the 1985 murder of 22-year-old Hillary Hellewell. Authorities in Rhode Island announced the charge on 6th October, highlighting the advancements in forensic technology that enabled the reopening of the cold case earlier this year.
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The announcement was made by Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Neronha and Newport Police Chief Ryan Duffy during a press briefing. Morton, currently residing in Smithfield, Rhode Island, was arraigned on one count of murder and is being held without the possibility of bail. He has a court date scheduled for 20th October for a status conference regarding the case.
The long-unsolved murder of Hellewell, whose body was discovered strangled on a sidewalk outside a Newport residence, has haunted the local community for nearly four decades. The renewed investigation, which began in 2023, utilised advanced forensic DNA analysis and other innovative techniques to identify Morton as a potential suspect in Hellewell’s death.
In a statement, Attorney General Neronha expressed the importance of the Cold Case Unit’s efforts, saying, “The purpose of the Cold Case Unit is to find long-overdue answers for victims and their families. Healing is a process without a defined end, but nevertheless, victims and their loved ones deserve answers and ultimately justice.” This sentiment underscores the ongoing commitment to updating unsolved cases as technology advances.
Newport Police Chief Duffy reflected on the case’s reopening, emphasising that the pursuit of justice does not fade with time. He stated, “Cases like this remind us that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to seeking justice for victims and their families. This case demonstrates what can be accomplished when dedicated investigators, strong interagency collaboration, and modern forensic science come together with a shared commitment to never give up on a victim.”
The investigation into Hellewell’s murder had been stalled for many years after DNA evidence, specifically a semen sample found on her clothing, was entered into the FBI’s CODIS database in 2004, but yielded no matches for over two decades. However, recent breakthroughs in forensic science allowed investigators to obtain a water bottle used by Morton at a local theatre, which upon testing, provided a DNA match to the samples taken from the crime scene in 1985.
Although the investigation has progressed significantly, authorities have yet to disclose a potential motive for Hellewell’s murder. The investigation remains ongoing, and law enforcement officials are expected to explore further leads and evidence as they continue their pursuit of justice in this tragic case.
In light of the recent developments, local and national interest in the case is reigniting, with many hoping that the efforts of law enforcement will bring closure not only to Hellewell’s family but also to the broader community that has sought answers for nearly four decades.
As the case unfolds, Newport Police and authorities in Smithfield remain focused on ensuring that the truth surrounding Hillary Hellewell’s death is uncovered. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the role that modern forensic technology plays in criminal investigations and the enduring pursuit of justice for victims and their families, regardless of the time that has passed.