Central Ohio Crime Stoppers’ “To Catch a Killer” initiative for this month concerns the 1980 Homicide of Wanda Zellner. On December 9, 1080, Columbus Police were dispatched to 1062 Wilson Ave. on the report of a D.O.A. (Dead On Arrival). It was later determined by investigators that the victim, Wanda Zellner, black female, 23 years of age, died as a result of multiple stab wounds to her chest area. Ms.Zellner was also a victim of rape. Her son, who was only 2 years old at the time, had been found clinging to her bloody body.
Per the investigating detective, a State Codus DNA match identified bodily fluids of James Preston Martini, aka James Preston Hughes, as the person who may have had sex with Ms. Zellner prior to her death. Per the investigating detective, additional information from the public is needed to proceed successfully with this case.
Crime Stoppers has posted a reward of up to $5,000.00 for any information received leading to the arrest and/or indictment of the persons responsible for this crime. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 461-TIPS (8477) or e-mail us at www.stopcrime.org. You can text a tip to “CRIMES” (274637), key word CMH.
Crime Stoppers does not use Caller ID or record telephone conversations. A special coding system protects the identity of the caller. Crime Stoppers also takes calls from persons with information about any felony. Information leading to the arrest and/or indictment of a felony suspect could qualify the caller for a reward as determined by the Crime Stoppers Board of Directors. For more information on Central Ohio Crime Stoppers, visit our website at www.stopcrime.org or call Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-877-645-TIPS (8477).
Crime Stoppers is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization. Reward money comes from private individuals, businesses, and foundations that see Crime Stoppers as an integral tool in the community’s fight against crime. Tax-deductible donations can be sent to Central Ohio Crime Stopper’s, Inc., and P.O. BOX 16038, COLUMBUS, OH 43216-6038.
