It has been over forty years since the tragic shooting death of a University of Colorado student in Boulder. The FBI is now escalating efforts to locate the suspect by unveiling new age-progression images.
Authorities released updated renderings of Thayne Alan Smika, the man accused of killing his former roommate, Sidney Lee Wells, on August 1, 1983. Wells, 22, was a senior at the University of Colorado Boulder pursuing journalism and enrolled in the Navy ROTC program.
Investigators found Wells on the living room floor of his apartment with a gunshot wound to the head. Smika, a student aged 24 at the time, was identified as a suspect but charges were not immediately filed.
Three years following the incident, Smika’s abandoned vehicle was discovered in Beverly Hills, California, with a stolen license plate. He has remained a fugitive since then.
A state warrant for first-degree murder was issued by a Boulder County judge in December 2010. Soon after, federal authorities charged Smika with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and issued a federal arrest warrant.
The FBI has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for credible information leading to Smika’s arrest and conviction.
An FBI age-progression image illustrates what Thayne Alan Smika might look like to modern-day audiences. These updated images aim to open potential leads in this longstanding case.
FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge, Amanda Koldjeski, emphasized the agency’s commitment to pursuing justice, stating, “It is never too late to hold a murder suspect accountable. We will persist in our collaboration with Boulder Police to ensure Smika is found and accountable.”
Boulder Police Chief, Steve Redfearn, expressed the hope that these released images will generate helpful tips, saying, “Our focus remains on finding Smika and securing justice. We appreciate our FBI partners for aiding in this endeavor.”
An alternative image shows Smika perhaps with facial hair and spectacles. Authorities urge assistance in the investigation by sharing information on the killing of Wells.
Smika is believed to be 67 years old now. He may be clean-shaven or have a beard and potentially wear glasses. The suspect lacks a valid U.S. passport and reportedly resided in Yelapa, Mexico, until 2007.
Individuals who may have information are encouraged to contact Boulder Police at 303-441-1974 or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov. Anonymous tips can be shared through Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867.
Brittany Miller contributed to this report as a Fox News Digital breaking news writer.
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