COLVILLE, Wash. – The family of Marlene and Cassie Emerson might finally see justice after their 23-year-old double murder cold case had a recent arrest in Colville.
The Steven’s County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Charles Tatom, 73, in connection to the murders after they say ‘new forensic evidence’ was collected.
Marlene and Cassie were believed to have been killed June 27, 1997, in Stevens County. Marlene was murdered inside her trailer before it was set on fire.
Cassie, Marlene’s 12-year-old daughter, was found abducted from the trailer and her body was recovered a month later in a nearby wooded area.
Both victims’ deaths were determined to be homicides with knife marks found on their bodies and some extremities not attached to their bodies.
After extensive efforts made to find the killer through interviews and evidence collection the case went cold. Law enforcement was unable to establish probable cause for a suspect leaving the family with no answers.
SCSO say that Tatom who has now been charged with the death, was found inside his home in Colville.
His charge of first-degree aggravated murder carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.
Authorities say they believe he was to be associated with ‘an outlaw motorcycle gang’ named the Iron Horsemen Motorcycle Club. The exact details into his involvement have not been disclosed.
“For 27 years, we have never given up on seeking justice for the victims and their families. Today’s outcome proves that we remain committed to solving these cases no matter how much time passes,” said Steven’s County Sheriff Brad Manke.
“We owe a special debt of gratitude to two retired law enforcement officers that continued to work this case as special deputies for years after their retirement,” he said.
Tatom is scheduled to appear in Steven’s County Superior Court on Friday, Dec. 19.
