In a chilling turn of events, the decades-old murder case of Angela Marie Samota has finally reached a resolution, bringing closure to a family haunted by tragedy since 1984. The shocking details of her brutal slaying and the subsequent quest for justice have captivated and horrified the nation.

Angela, known as Angie, was a bright and ambitious college student at the University of Texas in 1984. On the night of October 12, she was attacked in her own home by Donald Andrew Bless Jr., a convicted serial offender who had been stalking her. After gaining entry under the pretense of needing to use the bathroom, Bless unleashed a horrific assault that left Angie dead from 18 stab wounds. The crime scene was gruesome, with evidence of a desperate struggle for her life.

For years, investigators pursued various suspects, including her ex-boyfriend and friends, but the real killer eluded justice. It wasn’t until 2009 that modern DNA testing linked Bless to the crime, leading to his arrest. Despite being sentenced to death, Bless died in prison in October 2022, never facing the ultimate punishment for his heinous act.

The relentless efforts of Angie’s friend, Sheila Waki, played a crucial role in reopening the case. After years of pleading with authorities, Sheila transformed her grief into action, ultimately becoming a private investigator dedicated to solving Angie’s murder. Her determination led to the discovery of crucial DNA evidence that had been overlooked for years.

As Angie is finally remembered with dignity, her mother, Betty, who passed away in 2021, lived long enough to see justice served. Angie’s story serves as a haunting reminder of the unresolved pain felt by families of victims and the importance of pursuing justice, no matter how long it takes. The Dallas Police Department has since reestablished its Cold Case unit, aiming to bring closure to other families still waiting for answers.