48 Hours: Finding Sarah Yarborough’s Killer – Detailed Summary
Released on June 30, 2025 by CBS News
Introduction to Sarah Yarborough and the Tragic Crime
On the evening of Friday, December 13, 1991, tragedy struck the community of Federal Way, near Seattle, Washington. Sixteen-year-old Sarah Yarborough, a talented and beloved high school student, was brutally murdered. Sarah was an exemplary A student, known for her creativity, kindness, and infectious smile. Her promising future, filled with aspirations to travel and pursue a career as a museum curator or engineer, was violently cut short.
Notable Quote:
"This case is about a 16-year-old girl who had the right to grow up. This case is about Sarah and everything that she should have been allowed to become." – [02:35]
The Crime: A Peaceful Weekend Turned Deadly
Sarah was left home alone while her parents attended her brother's soccer game. She spent the weekend with a friend, engaging in typical teenage activities such as attending a basketball game and enjoying junk food. On Saturday morning, Sarah woke up in a panic, believing she was late for drill team practice. She hurried to school, only to discover she had arrived early. Sarah waited in her car, still expecting her team to show up, but within an hour, she was found dead approximately 100 yards away on the school property.
Details of the Crime:
- Location: School parking lot and nearby hill
- Evidence: Sarah’s car remained in the parking lot; her body was found partially clothed with nylon stockings tied around her neck and semen on her underwear and jacket.
- Initial Suspect Description: A white male, 6 feet tall, medium build, seen near the crime scene.
Notable Quote:
"There was just pure, unadulterated evil." – Detective Scott Strathy [07:50]
Immediate Aftermath: Community Shock and Fear
The discovery of Sarah's body plunged the community into fear and uncertainty. Residents grappled with the reality that a monster was among them, heightening the sense of vulnerability and mistrust. The initial investigation appeared promising with DNA evidence and eyewitness accounts, but as time passed without an arrest, the fear intensified, and the search for the killer seemed to stall.
Personal Impact:
- Drew Miller, then 13 years old, was the first to witness the suspect, a memory that has haunted him for over three decades.
- Sarah’s Family: Her parents, Laura and Tom Yarborough, endured unimaginable pain as they informed their young sons of Sarah's tragic death. Her younger brother, Andrew, struggled with grief and the constant reminders of the crime.
Notable Quote:
"This was like a lair. There was no working electricity at this house. Stacks of pornography all throughout the place." – Detective John Freeh [25:30]
The Long Pursuit: Investigative Challenges and Breakthroughs
Despite possessing critical evidence, including Sarah's DNA, the case went cold for years. Advances in DNA technology in the early 2000s provided hope, but initial attempts to match the DNA through the CODIS system yielded no results. Frustration grew as over 3,000 leads failed to point to the correct suspect.
Key Challenges:
- Limited DNA Matching: The suspect’s DNA was not in the CODIS database, raising doubts about the presence of previous crimes.
- Pressure on Witnesses: Drew and his friend, who witnessed the crime scene, felt immense pressure as the investigation stalled.
Notable Quote:
"This case was never forgotten." – [15:45]
A New Hope: Forensic Genetic Genealogy
In 2011, investigators turned to a pioneering method known as forensic genetic genealogy, led by Colleen Fitzpatrick. This technique involves comparing unknown DNA profiles to public DNA databases and constructing family trees to identify potential suspects. Initially met with skepticism, Colleen's involvement marked a turning point in the investigation.
Breakthrough:
- Colleen Fitzpatrick identified Robert Fuller as a potential suspect through his family tree. However, Fuller, a close family friend, was quickly eliminated due to discrepancies in appearance and age.
Notable Quote:
"This was the first break in the case in 20 years." – Detective John Freeh [22:10]
Identifying the Killer: Patrick Leon Nicholas
As forensic genetic genealogy advanced, Colleen's team made significant strides. In September 2019, they identified two potential suspects: brothers Edward and Patrick Nicholas. Edward was a registered sex offender, but his DNA did not match. Patrick, a 27-year-old loner working at an auto parts store, became the primary focus.
Surveillance and DNA Collection:
- Undercover detectives surveilled Patrick, eventually obtaining DNA from a cigarette butt he discarded.
- The DNA match was conclusive, leading to Patrick Nicholas's arrest.
Notable Quote:
"Finally, they got him." – Andrew Yarborough [30:15]
The Trial: Seeking Justice
Patrick Nicholas's trial commenced in early 2023, over 30 years after Sarah's murder. The prosecution relied heavily on DNA evidence obtained through forensic genetic genealogy, asserting that the probability of the match being coincidental was astronomically low (1 in 120,000,000,000).
Courtroom Dynamics:
- Prosecution: Emphasized the strength of DNA evidence and Patrick's criminal history as a serial predator.
- Defense: Challenged the reliability of forensic genetic genealogy as unproven and novel technology.
- Emotional Testimonies: Friends and family of Sarah testified, sharing their enduring grief and the impact of the crime on their lives.
Notable Quotes:
"This is like a time capsule. They were real things." – [38:20] "Patrick Nicholas is pure evil." – [45:50]
Verdict and Sentencing
After nine days of testimony, the jury found Patrick Nicholas guilty of first-degree and second-degree murder, recognizing the sexual motivation behind the crime. The sentencing hearing was a poignant moment for Sarah’s family and friends, who finally saw justice served after decades of suffering.
Impact on the Community:
- Sarah’s Legacy: Her friends and family continue to honor her memory, hoping that her case will inspire changes in the justice system.
- Legislative Implications: The case highlighted the limitations of existing DNA laws in Washington State, sparking discussions on allowing familial DNA searches to prevent similar injustices.
Notable Quote:
"We rely on a system of justice that is designed to protect us from predators like Nicholas. And this system failed me." – Ann Crony [55:40] "The jury, we finally defended." – [1:05:10]
Reflections and Call to Action
The resolution of Sarah Yarborough’s case through forensic genetic genealogy underscores the importance of evolving investigative techniques in solving cold cases. However, the Yarbrough family and advocates stress the need for legislative reforms to permit familial DNA searching, potentially preventing future tragedies by identifying perpetrators earlier.
Key Takeaways:
- Persistence Pays Off: Decades-long dedication from investigators and the community can eventually lead to justice.
- Technological Advancements: Emerging technologies like forensic genetic genealogy play a crucial role in modern criminal investigations.
- Systemic Improvements Needed: Legislative changes are essential to fully leverage DNA evidence in solving crimes.
Notable Quote:
"I hope Sarah's case can make a difference. I would like to know that other parents don't have to wait 30 years." – Andrew Yarborough [1:10:25]
Conclusion: Honoring Sarah’s Memory
Sarah Yarborough's story is a testament to the enduring impact of loss and the relentless pursuit of justice. Her memory continues to inspire and bring together those who knew her, fostering a community united by love, resilience, and the hope for a safer future.
Final Quote:
"She was beautiful, her soul was beautiful. The grace and the beauty that she carried and left with all of us. We won't forget her. We will never forget her." – [1:15:50]
For more details and a comprehensive timeline of Sarah Yarborough’s case, visit 48Hours.com.