Almost forty years have passed since the Colonial Parkway murders rattled Virginia, and recent DNA discoveries have broadened the case’s horizons while also questioning investigative oversight.

In a new episode of “Zone 7,” Sheryl McCollum talks with Bill Thomas, brother to original victim Cathy Thomas, alongside Kristin Dilley, his seasoned investigative collaborator and co-host of the podcast “Mind Over Murder.”

They delve into the latest DNA findings connected to Alan Wade Wilmer Sr., exploring the bureaucratic hurdles that prevent his profile from entering CODIS, and the widening gap between progress at the state level and stagnation federally.

Their conversation highlights the challenges that arise when evidence progresses but communication and action lag behind.

If you enjoy Zone 7, consider leaving a rating and review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback helps others discover the show and furthers its mission to educate, engage, and inspire.

Guest Bios:

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]