A man has been charged in connection with the 1996 murder of Lisa Redmond, a Utah mother who was fatally stabbed while working as a pizza delivery driver. Donald Eugene Younge Jr. was charged with murder, aggravated kidnapping, and robbery in relation to Redmond’s death. Redmond was found dead on the side of the road in her Pizza Hut uniform, with evidence of struggle and signs of being run over by a vehicle. Medical examiners determined her death was a homicide from blunt force injuries. The case remained cold until 2019 when DNA and fingerprints linked Younge to the crime.
Younge was linked to the murder through DNA found on a seat belt buckle in Redmond’s truck and fingerprints on a bloodied knife at the crime scene. He had worked near the Pizza Hut where Redmond was employed in 1996 and took the bus to get around. Younge was already serving a 30-year sentence for unrelated crimes, including sexual assault and robbery. He was also mentioned as a suspect in another murder investigation in 1999, but that case has been put on hold. He had previously been charged in multiple killings in the late 1990s and early 2000s, including the infamous “garbage bag” murders in Illinois.
Younge’s previous criminal history includes a conviction in 2010 for sexual assault against a University of Utah student. The incident occurred just before Redmond’s murder in 1996. He was also a suspect in the stabbing death of a 22-year-old University of Utah theater student in 1999. The motion for no bail holds mentioned Younge’s connection to multiple murder cases and the dismissal of one due to witness credibility issues. The case has raised questions about the criminal justice system and how individuals with violent histories can continue to commit crimes even after being incarcerated.
The arrest and charges against Younge have brought some closure to the family and friends of Lisa Redmond, who have been waiting for justice for over 25 years. The link between Younge and the crime provides a sense of resolution and accountability for Redmond’s death. The case also highlights the importance of DNA evidence and forensic technology in solving cold cases and bringing perpetrators to justice. The investigation into Younge’s possible involvement in other murders and crimes continues, raising concerns about the potential for further violence if he is ever released.
The impact of Lisa Redmond’s murder on her community and loved ones has been profound, with her memory living on through the pursuit of justice in her case. The long road to finding her killer has been marked by twists and setbacks, but the dedication of law enforcement and prosecutors has ultimately led to Younge’s arrest. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination in seeking justice for victims of violent crimes. As Younge awaits trial for the charges against him, the legal process will hopefully bring a sense of closure to all those affected by Redmond’s tragic death.
