OC Sheriff Uses New Forensic Tools to Revive 1993 Fatal Stabbing Investigation

SANTA ANA, Calif.—Orange County sheriff’s investigators are using new forensic tools to revive a 1993 cold case fatal stabbing investigation in Costa Mesa, authorities said Thursday.

Investigators are hoping the new analysis of evidence will turn up leads in the Aug. 11, 1993, stabbing of 61-year-old Alan Jay Schwalbe. Deputies found the victim’s body in the 300 block of 22nd Street in an unincorporated area of Costa Mesa.

Deputies say there was no evidence of a struggle or signs of someone breaking into the residence, and the killer did not ransack the location.

“The technology used to process forensic evidence is continuously growing and expanding,” sheriff’s investigator Bob Taft said. “Items that may have been undetectable just a few short years ago now have the possibility of being discovered and these discoveries can foster new investigative leads. In addition to new technology, people’s friendships, alliances and associations change over time. People who may have been reluctant to come forward during the original investigation may feel more at ease coming forward now because of a change in these associations.”

The results of recent analysis of the evidence with updated technology are pending.

Anyone who has relevant information for detectives was asked to call 714-647-7055 or email coldcase@ocsheriff.gov. Orange County Crime Stoppers will accept anonymous tips at 855-TIP-OCCS.