In 2012 the then sheriff, Tommy Whitt, announced that they had the killer's DNA, so they have that part. In fact, some locals stated that LE obtained voluntary DNA samples from residents along Craig Creek Road. I don't remember where I read that or heard it, but it has been stated. I don't believe the sheriff ever stated what the nature or source of the DNA was. Since the killer may have removed Heidi purse from the car he may have left it while taking the purse from the vehicle. We don't know if they have tire prints as the crime was discovered fairly quick so this may be something LE has held back. The fact that LE was looking for about 8-12 vehicles - of wide makes and types - seen in the area, does make me wonder if they have tracks.
The fact that it is a 30-30 does mean the weapon was most likely purchased for deer hunting and the killer is likely a deer hunter as it doesn't make the ideal home defense weapon. However, the problem is that the 30-30 cartridge has been around for well over 100 years. There is also a possibility that the killer may have used - either by borrowing or inheriting - his father's or grandfather's rifle. Or even, great-grandfather's rifle. Therefore, it is possible the killer is not a hunter, but using the gun the original owner purchased for hunting. There is a large part of the problem. I believe I read an article once where one of the major cartridge makers (Federal?, don't remember) listed it as one of the top 10 rifle cartridges sold. This is likely due to the durability of the rifles using the cartridge, primarily the Winchester Model 94 and the Marlin Model 336.
