cold case

American  

[kohld keys] / ˈkoʊld ˈkeɪs /

noun

1. a criminal investigation that has remained unsolved for an extended period of time.

   This year's award recipient is a state trooper whose work helped close a cold case from 1983.

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Etymology

Origin of cold case

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Cold case detectives are investigating her death and ask that anyone with information on Story or her two traveling companions call 702-828-3521 or email [email protected].

From Washington Times • Dec. 20, 2023

Cold case investigators met with Coffey’s sister in June and obtained DNA, confirming on Aug. 8 that the remains were Coffey’s and notifying her family about the identification.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 25, 2022

Cold case detectives also learned that the location and position of Huizar’s body documented by initial crime scene investigators and detectives differed from initial witness accounts, he said.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 17, 2022

Cold case investigators were told in July the DNA belonged to Bernal, sheriff officials said.

From Fox News • Aug. 7, 2020

Cold case officers said Green was arrested after a DNA breakthrough.

From BBC • Aug. 4, 2016