San Jose police renew investigation into 42-year-old homicide

SAN JOSE – Kelly Ralston’s murder more than 40 years ago in San Jose remains unsolved. But a recent development is raising hopes the cold case will finally be cracked.

During a review of the case, investigators found a description of a possible suspect that had not been disclosed to the public, according to San Jose police Sgt. Jorge Garibay.

The person was described as a white man, 32 to 35 years old and 5 feet 7 inches to 5 feet 8 inches tall, Garibay said. He also had a thin build and strawberry blond hair.

The review also identified a separate 2005 anonymous tip that indicated the person likely lived in the area at the time of the murder.

“We are hopeful this announcement will generate new tips related to the case,” Garibay said.

Ralston, 21, was found by a roommate in the downstairs bedroom of her Edgar Court apartment on Aug. 28, 1984. The San Jose State University student, who had a brown belt in karate and aspired to be a police officer, apparently fought furiously against her knife-wielding attacker, this news organization reported in 1989.

A small kitchen knife thought to be the murder weapon was found in the same room.

“Despite extensive investigative efforts at the time, the case remained unsolved,” Garibay said.

Detectives are now conducting a review of the original evidence, prior investigative leads and any additional case materials to determine whether advancements in forensic technology or new information may help move the case forward.

Garibay said anyone with information related to the case – “no matter how small or seemingly insignificant” – can call the SJPD Homicide Unit at 408-277-5283, or email Detective Sgt. Ivan Barragan at 4106@sanjoseca.gov or Detective Mike Harrington at 4365@sanjoseca.gov. Tips can also be left with Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers at 408-947-7867 or at siliconvalleycrimestoppers.org.