Crucial twist in Abanilla murder case: New DNA evidence raises fresh questions over slain tourist
A forensic report has revealed traces from two unidentified men on victim’s body, casting doubt on sole suspect’s involvement
In a significant development in the investigation of the April 2024 murder of Singaporean tourist Audrey Fang in Murcia’s Abanilla, forensic analyses have uncovered DNA from two unidentified males on the victim’s underwear and thigh.
This revelation introduces new avenues for the defence of the primary suspect, Mitchell O., who has consistently asserted his innocence.
The forensic report, conducted by a Madrid laboratory, detected male DNA in small quantities on swabs from Fang’s thigh and various sections of her underwear. Notably, no traces of semen were identified; instead, the findings pertain to cellular material.
Due to the minimal amounts of DNA present, specialists employed Y-chromosome STR analysis – a technique targeting male-specific genetic markers – to identify two distinct partial male genetic profiles. To ascertain any connections to potential suspects, these profiles require comparison with known DNA samples.
Mitchell O., currently in pre-trial detention, acknowledges transporting Fang from Alicante to the location where her body was later discovered but firmly denies involvement in her death. His legal representative, María Jesús Ruiz de Castañeda, emphasises that this new evidence suggests the possible involvement of individuals other than her client. She advocates for a comprehensive and impartial investigation, ensuring all available evidence undergoes thorough analysis.
Ruiz de Castañeda has underscored the necessity of avoiding convictions based on reasonable doubt or insufficient evidence. She asserts that a robust defence is not an impediment to uncovering the truth but rather a fundamental component of safeguarding individual rights within the justice system.
The defence remains committed to pursuing all necessary evidence to elucidate the facts, thereby ensuring judicial decisions rest on exhaustive analyses rather than assumptions or biases.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to compare the unidentified DNA profiles with existing databases and potential suspects to determine any matches. This process could be pivotal in identifying additional individuals linked to the crime, potentially reshaping the direction of the case.
Image: Fang Dirou/Facebook
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