1984 Everett cold case arrest

Suspect in Everett cold case expected in court

Judy Weaver was found murdered in her residence on Rucker Ave after the Everett Fire Department was called there to a report of a fire.

EVERETT, Wash. - Everett police announced on Wednesday that they made an arrest in a cold-case homicide from 1984.

On June 2, 1984, 42-year-old Judith "Judy" Weaver walked home alone after working at a business she had co-owned on Hewitt Avenue.

The Everett Fire Department responded to her home on Rucker Avenue after a report of a fire, and that's when she was found murdered inside, police said.

Investigators identified Mitchell Gaff as the suspect through DNA evidence and located him in Olympia. He was booked into the Snohomish County Jail and was charged with first-degree murder, police said.

"After nearly 40 years, Judy Weaver’s loved ones and our community will finally see someone held accountable for her tragic killing," said Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin. "My heart is with Judy’s family and friends as they continue grieving this difficult loss. I also want to commend our police department and our partner agencies for their continued focus on cold cases like this."

"Our investigators have worked tirelessly to get justice for Judy Weaver’s family," said Everett Police Chief John DeRousse. "We are incredibly proud of Det. Susan Logothetti for her effort and persistence which ultimately led to the identification and arrest of this suspect."

Police said charges were filed against Gaff in Snohomish County Superior Court.

Judy Weaver's family provided the following statement May 6:

"We want to thank the Everett Police Department, Detective Susan Logoghetti, Prosecutor Craig Matheson, and the Forensic Scientists who have worked so diligently over the years to compile the DNA evidence that ultimately led to an arrest. Throughout the years our family has never given up hope. We are very happy there will finally be justice for our mom, Judy. We request our privacy at this time as we navigate the beginnings of this difficult situation."