Sheriff’s homicide detectives trying to solve a 1985 murder are hoping distinctive tattoos on the arms of the victim will help identify the man — and provide insight into the nearly 39-year-old cold case.
The body of the victim was found on Oct. 26, 1985, down a steep embankment off the north side of state Highway 22 — between mile markers 37 and 38 — in the Borrego Springs area. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition, and detectives were unable to identify him, officials said.
Because the victim had distinctive tattoos on his arms, cold case detectives are hopeful someone will know who he was and can help push the investigation forward. The victim was wearing blue jeans, a light-colored pullover shirt and black combat boots, officials said. He was not carrying any ID.
On his left forearm was a tattoo of a wolf howling at a red moon and the words “Life” or “Wife.” His upper right arm was tattooed with the word “Linda,” while the right forearm had the word “Gypsy” with another word that was unreadable, officials said.
“They were able to get those photos of the tattoos without showing any of the injuries,” homicide Lt. Mike Krugh said. Investigators know how the man was killed but are holding back those details for now.
Cold case detectives are trying to solve a 1985 homicide and said the victim a word that appeared to be “life” or “wife” on his left arm.
(Courtesy of San Diego County Sheriff’s Department)
The Sheriff’s Department has five detectives assigned to cold cases who review files and look for ways to reignite investigations. That’s why they are putting out the word to the public about the tattoos, Krugh said.
Investigators didn’t release how the man was killed or his apparent age. Krugh said the man was found about four or five days after he was killed.
He is hopeful someone will recognize the tattoos. “Maybe the tattoo artist who did it,” the lieutenant said. “Or (someone will say) my buddy had tattoos like that.”
Anyone with information about the case is asked to call (858) 285-6330 or can remain anonymous by calling San Diego County Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
