New DNA tool for stranglings?

Philadelphia police are considering a proposal from Colorado authorities that could help them in their search for the Kensington Strangler.

Denver’s District Attorney Mitchell Morrissey has offered the use of innovative familial DNA software, which has been used by authorities in Colorado, California and now Virginia, as first reported by The Inquirer. The tool analyzes a suspect’s DNA to identify close relatives, and last year it helped California officials track down the Grim Sleeper, accused of killing at least 10 people.

Philadelphia authorities could use it to help find the man linked to three murders in Kensington since November. A spokesman for the police department says no decision is likely to be made until a new lab director comes aboard.

“The Department is still exploring the use of familial DNA,” Lt. Ray Evers said. “After careful consideration, a decision will be made.”