Hannah Graham, the University of Virginia student who has been missing since September 13, has loved ones who want answers as to her whereabouts. Now, new information linking a suspect in her disappearance to the death of a woman in 2009 has shed tragic light on the case, but is bringing hope for closure to another family.
According to sources close to the investigation, suspect Jesse Matthew has now been forensically linked to Morgan Harrington, a 20-year old Virginia Tech student who went missing in 2009 after a concert. Her remains were later found on a farm. Though it’s not clear at this time what forensic evidence police may have, officials say it’s a big break in a case that has kept Harrington’s family frustrated for five years.
“We worked five years to get to this point, so we are relieved,” Morgan’s mother Gil told WTVR.
Now, as the investigation continues into Hannah Graham’s disappearance, more questions are arising regarding Matthew, who fled to Texas after police named him as a person of interest and requested a search of his home and car. He was found and subsequently arrested for leading them on a dangerous chase, and has now been charged with abduction with intent to defile. Graham, meanwhile, still has not been found.
“We are heartbroken for her family. We know what they’re going through. Police need information. They need to process tips. Please reach out to police and do not be the filter. Even if you think it does not make sense, let police be the filter,” Gil Harrington said.
Matthew’s father, Jesse Matthew Sr., says his son would never hurt anyone.
“For a big man, he’s as gentle as they come. The only thing I could see, him, maybe trying to give the girl a ride or help her out. To kill or hurt somebody, that’s not my son,” he said.