Catherine Walker was 24 and a resident of Oakland, California when she was murdered on December 8, 1986. She was found dead in her home with multiple stab wounds; the injuries and the scene indicated a violent struggle.

The investigation involved multiple law enforcement agencies and went cold for years before a re-examination of DNA evidence produced a lead. That testing eventually identified a suspect and led to arrests. Court testimony outlined an alleged conspiracy: Michael Walker, Catherine’s husband, and Ailsa Jackson were accused of planning the killing, with Michael’s motive said to be financial. Jackson reportedly entered the home the night of the murder and stabbed Catherine; she later made statements about her involvement and her relationship with Michael. Michael was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 35 years; Jackson received a 30-year sentence.

What details about Catherine’s life or the case stand out to readers who remember Oakland in the 1980s, or who may have information not already shared with investigators?