Investigator of the Year
Each year, the Cold Case Coalition recognizes individuals whose work has made a profound impact on victims’ families and restoring faith in the pursuit of truth. Each honoree embodies the Coalition’s mission to ensure that no crime is left unanswered.
The Cold Case Investigator of the Year Award highlights the vital importance of revisiting unresolved cases with fresh perspectives, advanced techniques, and unwavering commitment. The award includes a grant for DNA sequencing on a FIGG case.
Colleen Fitzpatrick
Identifinders International, LLC
2025 Investigator of the Year
Colleen is a leading figure in Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy. Her list of accomplishments include the first known attempt to use genetic genealogy in a homicide case (Sarah Yarborough), first identification of a suspect with genetic genealogy (canal killings in Phoenix, using Y-DNA), co-founding of the DNA Doe Project, first trial testimony by a FIGG practitioner, identification of the "Titanic baby," identification of "the Boy in the Box," discovery of "Baby Holly" as still alive, and many more.
