Nevada State Police identify cold case homicide victim more than 40 years later

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – Nevada State Police have identified a cold case homicide victim more than 40 years after the discovery of his remains, with the help of advanced DNA testing.

The remains were positively identified in December of 2023 as Albert Matas of Commerce, California. Further investigation revealed that the family of Matas had lost all contact with him in September of 1978, police said.

Originally the Nye County Sheriff’s Office located Matas remains in October of 1980 one mile east of U.S. 95 and 60 miles south of Tonopah Nevada near a dirt road. Several items were collected from the scene and the investigation revealed the cause of death was homicide via several gunshot wounds, according to police.

Before the DNA test was conducted, the Nevada State Police Investigation Division worked on several interviews and made attempts to further the investigation and identify the unknown homicide victim through fingerprints, dental records, press releases, and evidentiary items located at the scene. However, no significant leads were established. The investigation into the death of Albert Matas is still ongoing.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Nevada State Police Investigation Division at 775-684-7456.

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