The Colonial Parkway murders, a notorious series of crimes in Virginia, continue to baffle investigators even after nearly 40 years. Recent developments in DNA evidence have broadened the scope of the investigation, simultaneously prompting scrutiny over the handling of the case.
In this episode of “Zone 7,” Sheryl McCollum engages in a discussion with Bill Thomas, whose sister Cathy Thomas was among the initial victims, and Kristin Dilley, his long-time investigative collaborator and co-host of the “Mind Over Murder” podcast.
They delve into the recent DNA findings connected to Alan Wade Wilmer Sr., the bureaucratic hurdles preventing his profile from entering CODIS, and the widening gap between state-level progress and federal inaction.
The conversation highlights the challenges faced when advancements in evidence are not matched by effective communication and decisive action.
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About the Guests:
Bill Thomas is a victim advocate and the brother of Cathy Thomas, one of the original victims of the Colonial Parkway murders. For nearly four decades, he has worked with law enforcement, forensic experts, and journalists to seek answers in his sister’s case and accountability for all affected families.
Bill is co-host of the podcast, “Mind Over Murder,” where he focuses on cold cases, investigative transparency, and the systemic challenges families face in long-term homicide investigations.
Kristin Dilley is a true crime podcaster, researcher, writer, and teacher based in Williamsburg, Virginia. Kristin has worked alongside Bill Thomas for more than seven years and is the co-host of “Mind Over Murder,” where she examines cold cases with an emphasis on evidence, patterns, and victim-centered accountability.
About the Host
Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an active crime scene investigator for a Metro Atlanta Police Department and the director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, which partners with colleges and universities nationwide. With more than 4 decades of experience, she has worked on thousands of cold cases using her investigative system, The Last 24/361, which integrates evidence, media, and advanced forensic testing.
Her work on high-profile cases, including The Boston Strangler, Natalie Holloway, Tupac Shakur and the Moore’s Ford Bridge lynching, led to her Emmy Award for “CSI: Atlanta” and induction into the National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame in 2023.
Social Links:
• Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com
• Twitter: @149zone7
• Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum
• Instagram: @officialzone7podcast
Preorder Sheryl’s upcoming book, “Swans Don’t Swim in a Sewer: Lessons in Life, Justice, and Joy from a Forensic Scientist,” releasing May 2026 from Simon and Schuster.
[Feature Photo: Alan Wilmer/Virginia State Virginia]
