DNA Evidence Cracks Decade-Old Valentine's Day Murder
Prosecutors have charged a man with second-degree murder, marking a major breakthrough in a chilling cold case that has remained unsolved for nearly a decade. The victim, Thomas Hess, was discovered dead on the floor of his Seattle apartment on February 14, 2015.
Gruesome Scene and Forensic Clues
When authorities found Mr Hess, he was covered with blankets. A closer examination revealed his hands were tied behind his back with shoelaces. A can of Easy-Off oven cleaner was located next to his body, indicating an attempt to clean the scene.
The medical examiner ruled the death a homicide, concluding that Hess had suffered blunt force injuries to his face, neck, and torso. The official cause of death was determined to be probable mechanical asphyxia.
A critical turn in the investigation came in 2016, when evidence submitted to the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab yielded a DNA profile. Genetic material was successfully lifted from the shoelaces used to bind the victim and from the back of his neck.
Suspect Identified and Charged
Earlier this year, the crime lab made the pivotal identification, matching the DNA to Clay Fosse. This week, formal charges of second-degree murder were filed against the 37-year-old.
According to court documents, Fosse is alleged to have bound, severely beaten, and strangled the victim to death. Prosecutors state he then tried to conceal his presence by dousing Mr Hess in oven cleaner and covering his body with blankets.
It remains unclear why there was a nine-year gap between the DNA discovery in 2016 and Fosse being charged in 2025. The relationship, if any, between Fosse and Hess has also not been disclosed.
Court filings note that the defendant does not appear to have any ties to Seattle, King County, or Washington State, save for a few months in 2015 when police records place him in the area.
High Bail for an Incarcerated Defendant
Clay Fosse is currently serving a prison sentence in New Mexico for convictions on larceny and aggravated battery. His extensive criminal history includes time served for false imprisonment, theft, and kidnapping.
Despite his existing incarceration, prosecutors successfully argued for a $5 million bail, citing the clear danger he poses to the community and his lack of ties to Washington. Fosse is scheduled for arraignment on November 19.
