Investigation into 1996 Fresno Woman's Murder Yields Breakthrough After Two Decades of Silence
A fresh lead in a decades-old cold case has finally led to the arrest and conviction of Nickey Stane, the suspect behind the murder of 22-year-old Debbie Dorian. The victim was found dead in her northeast Fresno apartment by her father just days after graduating from Fresno State University in 1996.
Vince Zavala, a retired Fresno law enforcement investigator, has been instrumental in cracking the case that had gone cold nearly two decades ago. Despite never giving up on the investigation, it wasn't until Zavala reconnected with Stane that the killer was finally brought to justice.
In an exclusive interview with ABC's Juju Chang, who reports on the 20/20 episode about Debbie Dorian's murder, investigators revealed new evidence that sheds light on the cat-and-mouse game played between Stane and Zavala. Stane had managed to evade capture for so long by constantly moving from one location to another.
On the day of the arrest, Zavala confronted Stane at a fast-food restaurant in a mall where he was working. The investigation then led to an interrogation room where additional surveillance footage revealed what Stane said during his interactions with police officers.
However, it's not just about Debbie Dorian's murder that has been solved – her case also shines a light on other victims who were assaulted by Stane years after her death. One of the survivors, Jane Doe #1, came forward and shared her story, revealing how she fought back when confronted by the perpetrator.
The 20/20 episode provides a final word from Debbie Dorian's family and friends, offering closure to those affected by her senseless murder. With Stane now serving life in prison due to his age, investigators can finally put an end to the years of silence surrounding this tragic crime.
A fresh lead in a decades-old cold case has finally led to the arrest and conviction of Nickey Stane, the suspect behind the murder of 22-year-old Debbie Dorian. The victim was found dead in her northeast Fresno apartment by her father just days after graduating from Fresno State University in 1996.
Vince Zavala, a retired Fresno law enforcement investigator, has been instrumental in cracking the case that had gone cold nearly two decades ago. Despite never giving up on the investigation, it wasn't until Zavala reconnected with Stane that the killer was finally brought to justice.
In an exclusive interview with ABC's Juju Chang, who reports on the 20/20 episode about Debbie Dorian's murder, investigators revealed new evidence that sheds light on the cat-and-mouse game played between Stane and Zavala. Stane had managed to evade capture for so long by constantly moving from one location to another.
On the day of the arrest, Zavala confronted Stane at a fast-food restaurant in a mall where he was working. The investigation then led to an interrogation room where additional surveillance footage revealed what Stane said during his interactions with police officers.
However, it's not just about Debbie Dorian's murder that has been solved – her case also shines a light on other victims who were assaulted by Stane years after her death. One of the survivors, Jane Doe #1, came forward and shared her story, revealing how she fought back when confronted by the perpetrator.
The 20/20 episode provides a final word from Debbie Dorian's family and friends, offering closure to those affected by her senseless murder. With Stane now serving life in prison due to his age, investigators can finally put an end to the years of silence surrounding this tragic crime.
finally some closure for Debbie's family & friends who waited 20 yrs for answers 
I'm so relieved that the killer has been caught after all these years! 22-year-old Debbie Dorian's family must've been living with so much uncertainty and pain. It's amazing that Vince Zavala didn't give up on the case even when everyone else thought it was cold. The fact that Stane evaded capture for so long just shows how clever he was... but not clever enough! 
. Debbie Dorian's family must be forever grateful to Vince Zavala for sticking it out and not giving up on the case. And I'm glad that Jane Doe #1 found the courage to share her story - it's a reminder that healing takes time, but with support from loved ones and justice being served, it can be done 
.
But what really got my attention is the new evidence that came out. Surveillance footage showing Stane talking to police officers? That's some pretty damning stuff! 
I'm glad one of Jane Doe #1 finally came forward too, it's so important for people to share their stories and help bring perpetrators to justice. It's also reassuring to know Debbie's family can finally get some closure 
her case was like a cold shoulder from everyone, even law enforcement, but one person never gave up 
. I mean, who else can say they cracked a case after 20+ years of silence? That dedication is truly inspiring. And now that Stane's behind bars, I hope the survivors of his attacks can finally get the closure they deserve 
... I remember watching 20/20 back in '97 and Debbie's family was still searching for answers... It's crazy how time just keeps moving, huh? They're finally getting some closure, but it's also a shame that this happened to her and others like Jane Doe #1 
, i mean imagine having that kind of mystery hanging over your head and never getting answers... but at the same time, it's amazing that Vince Zavala never gave up on solving the case 
, i guess you could say his cat-and-mouse game with Zavala was one for the books 
.